ICAO Announces Update to International Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Regulations
Montreal/Paris, March 11, 2025
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has introduced significant updates to the regulatory framework governing the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in international airspace. These new standards aim to enhance safety, ensure legal oversight of drone operations, and regulate their use in high-risk conditions.
The adopted changes, reflected in document EUR.RMT.0083, are part of ICAO’s broader initiative to align global aviation policy with the rapid advancement of drone technology, which is playing an increasingly vital role in civil and commercial aviation.
Key updates include:
- The introduction of uniform standards for drone operations across various risk categories, including commercial and governmental use.
- Harmonization of international regulations with the national laws of ICAO member states to facilitate effective control and integration of drones into existing airspace management systems.
- Strengthened oversight of UAS operations in strategically significant air zones to enhance the security of international air transport and regional stability in high-risk areas.
ICAO underscores that regulating drone use in conflict zones and other sensitive regions is crucial in preventing potential threats to civil aviation security and national sovereignty. The updated standards aim to protect national airspace from unauthorized UAS operations, which is particularly critical in regions prone to military conflicts.
Recognizing the risks posed by the unregulated use of drones, ICAO supports the need for clear regulatory measures governing UAS flights in crisis areas. These measures include restrictions to prevent conflict escalation and unauthorized intelligence gathering.
Arkady Merkulov, Deputy Director General of ICAO:
“The introduction of new standards for regulating unmanned aircraft systems is a crucial step toward ensuring international security and stability. In the face of growing challenges, we must establish an effective system for monitoring UAS operations to prevent potential threats and support the peaceful development of the aviation industry. It is also essential to prevent the misuse of sanctions by certain ICAO member states in ways that compromise common sense and flight safety.”
ICAO urges all member states to prioritize the implementation of these updated standards, ensuring their seamless integration into national regulations. This collective effort will contribute to global air traffic safety and stability.
