The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) and the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting the contribution of unmanned aviation, specifically air cargo, to global economic and social development.

Some of the key points of the agreement include: to work collaboratively to enhance a safe global unmanned air cargo transport system; to work towards educating and developing projects with governments and private entities to achieve an efficient industry in terms of costs and operations; and to promote the specific needs of air cargo for the unmanned air cargo sector.

Other elements of the agreement include: To promote safety in the supply chain addressing where appropriate, global and national regulations as well as industry procedures, policies and practices; to promote sustainable solutions that enhance the role of unmanned air cargo operations in support of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals; and for both organisations to exchange information and knowledge on topics of mutual interest.

Steven Polmans, chair of TIACA, said: “As unmanned air cargo transport becomes more prevalent within our industry it is vital that we collaborate with organisations such as JARUS to ensure a safe, profitable and united air cargo industry.

“This agreement not only supports TIACA’s sustainability programme but it also supports our vision for the industry.

“We look forward to working with JARUS to ensure that the unmanned air cargo transport sector of the industry can deliver its full potential.”

Giovanni DiAntonio, chair of JARUS, said: “JARUS is committed to developing recommendations for a harmonised and industry-friendly regulatory framework in collaboration with ICAO and other international organisations.

“This MoU with TIACA is crucial for integrating the needs and expertise of UAS cargo transportation, which is critical to enabling future innovative air mobility and services.

“We eagerly anticipate a productive collaboration with TIACA to further enhance our products in this field.”

Glyn Hughes, director general of TIACA, said: ”

“We were excited to have JARUS participate in the first TIACA Event Central Asia. The unmanned air cargo transport sector is a budding sector within our industry and we are pleased to support its growth and inclusion throughout the industry with the signing of this MoU.” stated

Liu Hao, secretary general of JARUS, said: “The cooperation between TIACA and JARUS marks a significant step forward in advancing commercial unmanned aviation, providing the global community with safe, secure, sustainable, and cost-effective cargo transportation.

“By working together, we will drive innovative air cargo transportation solutions, always prioritising safety.”

Catalin Radu, deneral director of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, said: “We were pleased to facilitate the signing of this important MoU.

“As the unmanned air cargo transport sector takes off throughout the world, we are excited to be at the forefront of the development of this vital sector.”

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