UAV Communications Evolution Presentation by Dr. Jonathan Foremny

From Connectivity to Safety Service Provider: The Evolution of UAV Communications in Aviation Safety Services

In his insightful presentation, Dr. Jonathon Foremny from Viasat and Carroll College discusses the transformative journey of UAV communications and its critical role in enhancing aviation safety services.

The next phase of UAV operations will require a fundamental shift in how communications are perceived across the aviation ecosystem. As these operations progress beyond visual line of sight and towards routine integration into national and international airspace systems, UAV communications can no longer be viewed merely as a data service; they must evolve into aviation safety services that support mission continuity, operational assurance, and regulatory compliance. This Jonathon Foremny presentation will examine the evolution of UAV communications, highlighting the transition from traditional connectivity solutions to aviation-grade safety services, incorporating C2CSP. It will delve into the emerging role of communications service providers in facilitating safe UAV operations through assured command and control links, performance-based satellite communications requirements, cybersecurity protections, and adherence to evolving aviation standards and regulatory frameworks, including Part 108 and Part 146. The session will discuss how standards like RTCA DO-377B/C, EUROCAE WG-105, and ICAO RPAS guidance, alongside other global initiatives, shape expectations for communication performance in terms of availability, continuity, integrity, and latency. It will also underscore the difference between simply providing connectivity and delivering a safety-critical communications capability that supports the regulatory approval of complex BVLOS operations. As the UAV industry advances towards greater autonomy, broader operational domains, and global interoperability, the communications layer will become an essential component of aviation safety assurance. This presentation will explore the strategic opportunity for communications providers to transition from being bandwidth suppliers to aviation safety service providers, ultimately assisting operators, regulators, and airspace stakeholders in building the confidence necessary for the next generation of remotely piloted and autonomous flight operations.

Dr. Jonathan Foremny is an aviation and space professional specializing in remotely piloted aircraft systems, airworthiness, and aviation standards, as well as regulatory integration. He serves as the Manager of Aviation and UAV Standards at Viasat, where he leads global standards and regulatory activities that support aviation connectivity, BVLOS operations, and aviation safety services, particularly crucial for safety-critical satellite communications. Dr. Foremny brings over a decade of experience in aviation, encompassing airworthiness engineering, flight testing, and operational roles with UAS, aerostats, stratospheric aircraft, and advanced aviation systems. He has amassed more than 5,000 flight hours across various aircraft and has extensive expertise in UAV certification, test operations, and regulatory approval efforts. Dr. Foremny holds a Doctor of Education in Aviation and Space, a Master's in Aviation and Space, an advanced certificate in UAS Operations and Applications, and is currently pursuing his MBA in Organizational Management. Additionally, he contributes to the education of future aviation professionals as an associate professor of flight planning and management, including the Jonathon Foremny presentation on UAV communications. His current focus is on advancing global UAV integration through standards development, aviation safety frameworks, and innovative communication solutions that facilitate scalable BVLOS operations.