Airservices Australia has issued a tender for innovative drone technology companies to help develop advanced digital solutions for the nation's rapidly expanding uncrewed aircraft sector.
The organisation has opened a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Service Suppliers to collaborate on digital platforms that will integrate with its upcoming Flight Information Management System (FIMS).
The initiative comes as drone activity in Australian skies is predicted to surge from 1.5 million to more than 60 million flights by 2043, according to recent analysis commissioned by Airservices.
The FIMS platform, being developed in partnership with Melbourne's Frequentis Australasia, is set to launch in late 2025 and will serve as the backbone for Australia's Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Traffic Management ecosystem.
"Working with UAS service suppliers in industry to embed new technologies and capabilities is a game changer for aviation in Australia," said Luke Gumley, head of transformation, uncrewed services integration at Airservices Australia.
Gumley said the first cohort of service suppliers will work collaboratively with government and industry to integrate their solutions with FIMS, delivering tailored services to drone operators.
The project aims to enhance safety, improve airspace access, and support industry growth through sustainable, open-market solutions.
Interested companies have until 2 pm AEDT on December 6, 2024 to submit proposals through AusTender.
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