What does the term "sense and avoid" refer to in the UAS industry?

The term "sense and avoid" in the UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) industry refers to the capability of an unmanned aircraft to detect other aircraft or obstacles in its flight path and take appropriate action to avoid collisions. This is a crucial aspect of ensuring safe operation in shared airspace. The concept involves using various sensors, such as cameras, radar, and lidar, to continuously monitor the surrounding environment.

By transmitting information for aircraft self-separation, systems can analyze the data gathered and determine the optimal maneuvers to maintain a safe distance from other aircraft. This capability is essential for autonomous operations, particularly in environments where manned and unmanned aircraft are operating simultaneously.

While managing airspace traffic signals, controlling autonomous flight algorithms, and enhancing communication between drones are important elements in the broader context of UAS operations, they do not specifically encapsulate the essence of "sense and avoid." This term highlights the proactive measures of awareness and collision avoidance, which is vital in ensuring safety and compliance with aviation regulations.