The Law of Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Book excerpt: Aerospace Law and Policy Series, Volume 11 In recent years, few industries have grown so prodigiously as that of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and, as a result, developments in national, regional, and international law and policy are being initiated and implemented. This new edition of the definitive survey and guide, first published in 2016, reflects the expansion of this sector and the importance placed on it by a diverse range of stakeholders, as well as the enlarged regulatory and policy landscape. In addition to updating many of the original chapters, the second edition covers new topics and moves away from a purely introductory book to a more detailed and critical compendium. Authorship has also been extended beyond the original scope of contributors, which originally centred around those affiliated with Leiden University’s Institute of Air and Space Law, and now includes additional experts from all around the world, each of whom explores both already existing rules and proposals coming from national, regional and international levels. As well as broadened discussions on such fundamental legal issues as insurance, financing, liability, accidents investigation, privacy, cyber security, stakeholder organisations and industry standards, the second edition takes into account major recent developments in such areas as the following: applicability and relevance of international regulatory instruments; coming into force of the European Union UAS-related laws; evolution of different States’ national law; public safety (e.g., design, production, operation and maintenance); development of unmanned traffic management systems; commercial operations, including urban air mobility (e.g., flying taxis, cargo delivery, high-altitude activities); and developments in defence and security (e.g., dual-use, counter-UAS industry to combat illegal use). As in the first edition, a representative cross section of national laws is included, covering twenty-one different jurisdictions. This fully updated edition not only synthesises and clarifies the complex body of international, regional and national UAS-related law, but also provides expert insight into trends and areas of concern for numerous stakeholders. Without a doubt, it will be of immeasurable value to lawyers, relevant governmental and non-governmental agencies, aviation law scholars, and strategic planners in the wider aviation and transport industries.