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  • U-space: Reserved airspace for Drones in Europe. Countdown to 26 January 2023 has begun!

    On that day, a comprehensive collection of extremely detailed regulations - the most recent of which was released on December 20, 2022 - that make up the European rule for U-space go into effect. Determined by national governments, governed by European laws These "U-spaces" are determined by the national governments, but once they are established, they are governed by EU drone laws and monitored by private U-Space Service Providers who also adhere to EU laws (and thus no longer provided by in-country ANSP, the Air Navigation Service Providers). This is a component of a larger EU Drone Strategy 2.0 published on November 29, 2022 that paves the way and promotes the efficient, secure, and safe growth of drone activities. U-space: a no-fly zone for manned aircraft? According to SERA 6005 c (European Flight Rules): "Manned aircraft operating in airspace designated by the competent authority as a U-space airspace, and not provided with an air traffic control service by the ANSP, shall continuously make themselves electronically conspicuous to the U-space service providers” (applicable as of 26 January 2023). In other words, only manned aircraft that are "eConspicuous," that is visible to U-space users, will be permitted to enter non-controlled airspace. This airspace is determined by national authorities as from 26.1.2023 and to be expected soon. It will most likely be limited to 500ft in the first phase. How can one be "eConspicuous"? There are now two ways to be noticeable to the drone community, according to EASA: Transmitting using an ADS-B-out or FLARM device: EASA has already released the specifications. Making use of mobile telephony: SafeSky is closely collaborating with EASA and other parties to develop technical specifications that will enable you to be eConspicous by using apps such as SafeSky. Both manned and unmanned aircraft will be powered by mobile technologies (5G and via satellite links) in the future. The conclusion of this in the upcoming months is something we really wish for! So there as well, additional details will be forthcoming.

  • Use of mobile technology in the air no longer forbidden!

    One of the first messages you receive when boarding a commercial flight is to turn off your cell phones or put them in “airplane mode". This will quickly pass into oblivion! Europe recognises 5G You might remember that there were some trepidations last year regarding the use of 5G within aircraft, particularly in the US, due to potential interferences with the aircraft's instrumentation. This is however not the case in Europe, as 5G uses different frequencies than in the US. On the other hand, using the internet has evolved into a standard practice on long-distance flights (even though it is somewhat expensive...). This is accomplished using specialised, high-end equipment that uses a satellite connection to establish WIFI hotspots within the aircraft. But the game has suddenly altered as a result of the enormous influx of investments in the drone industry. The best path forward for the drone industry's future developments appears to be via satellite and 5G connections. A decision on "Harmonised technical criteria for the usage of aerial User Equipment" was agreed by the ECC (the Electronic Communications Committee of the European Conference of Postal and Telecommunications Administrations) on November 18, 2022, in response to this. What’s in it for you? This ruling establishes the legality of aerial mobile phone use in Europe and ensures its standardised use. In other words, legally, both manned and unmanned aircraft in Europe are now permitted to use a phone or tablet while in the air! For all GA pilots who use applications while flying, this is fantastic news! Indeed, EASA is making great efforts to assure that using mobile technology will be one of the methods to be "eConspicuous" in the upcoming U-Spaces, collaborating with partners such as SafeSky. That would imply that you would fulfil SERA 6005-c's requirements solely by using a situational awareness app on your mobile phone or tablet, without any extra hardware. That sounds like music to the ears of our many SafeSky users, doesn't it? Ready for take-off? Not yet, this decision still needs to be implemented by the national telecom authorities. All nations were urged by the ECC to put this into action by May 23, 2023.

  • Our November Newsletter is out!

    Who said November is a quiet month in general aviation in Europe? Check out our most recent newsletter, which reports on the following topics: GA situational awareness solutions: a simple overview of all situational awareness technologies that are available and what they offer Our users in the picture: Martin Mareček relates his adventurous flight from his home country Check Republic to France, to attend the Blois aero event Belgian Paramotor Federation and SafeSky join forces for safer air traffic: a unique partnership that demonstrates that "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." Looking for the perfect X-Mas gift?: A little help from our SafeSky Santa Claus in your search for a present for a loved one who flies General Aviation For the technical geeks: Stratux integration: How does it work and how to configure? It's dogged that does it: Flying Neurons finally visible in SafeSky! Enjoy reading!

  • BPMF/FBPM and SafeSky join forces for safer air traffic

    In order to promote aviation safety among its members, the Belgian Paramotor Federation (BPMF/FBPM) has decided to join forces with SafeSky. To do so, the BPMF/FBPM will include the Premium edition* of the SafeSky application in their 2023 membership services and benefits. The community of paramotor members can rely on training and informational sessions organised by BPMF/FBPM in collaboration with SafeSky, to emphasise the role and responsibility of all in enhancing air safety and to guarantee the proper and consistent usage of SafeSky. Why? The challenges. There is a lot to do around flight safety. Especially for general aviation (GA), where aircraft are not necessarily equipped with high-tech detection gear (in/out) due to the high cost. Considerable initiatives are being made by the public, private, and associative sectors to make the skies safer for these aircraft. Unfortunately, we are reminded several times a year that things could and should be better. Recent mid-air collisions in Europe are evidence of this. Belgium is sadly not exempt from these tragic events. Paramotors are among the most vulnerable general aviation users. They have little physical protection, and their aircraft are usually not visible to other air users. Because of this, the Belgian Paramotor Federation (BPFM/FBPM) prioritises safety through training and info sessions. Additionally, each discipline in general aviation (ultralights, helicopters, paragliders, …) has its own “flying language” (ADS-B, FLARM, Fanet, etc.) which is rarely mutually shared or technologically understood by the other systems. The opportunities. But there is help from the private sector. Recently, the SafeSky app came into the market as a straightforward and affordable solution to address these visibility and communication gaps. All pilots at low- and medium-altitude airspace can communicate their location by simply using their mobile device. What is more, the app is free of charge to ensure a “zero cost = zero barrier” solution. In addition to registering and anonymously transmitting the whereabouts of SafeSky users, the app also incorporates air traffic from over 15 other protocols as such significantly fixing the communication issues between the different general aviation categories. The SafeSky app was rewarded internationally with GA excellence awards and enjoys the support of both national and European authorities. In the past, SafeSky has formed numerous partnerships true to its conviction that, "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." (Hellen Keller). This collaboration with the BPMF/FBPM is however the first one with a national Belgian GA Federation. Patrick Aussems, President BPMF, said: "The key elements to avoid mid-air collisions are to see and be seen. Paramotors are small aircraft that are slow and not easy to spot, that's why the use of SafeSky is a huge step forward to increased security by making other pilots aware of the presence of such an aircraft in their vicinity. The Premium version which adds the possibility to run SafeSky in the background and get the surrounding traffic displayed in compatible navigation programs is a huge bonus for paramotor pilots because we often fly with a single device. With this partnership, we hope to increase the use of SafeSky in the paramotor community and make the skies a safer place for every pilot." Paul Windey, Co-Founder SafeSky said: “Each aviation discipline has its own particularities. Paramotors fly freely, head into the wind, and it's an incredible pleasure and sensation. With SafeSky as a companion, freedom and safety go hand in hand, allowing other faster aircraft (planes, ulms, ...) to see this slow traffic and avoid it. The sky belongs to all of us and we share it, let's do it in a mature way by thinking of the other pilots as well, because a collision is always a two-way process. This partnership is a major contribution to safety for all.” We strongly hope that this collaboration will serve as inspiration and invitation to other GA Federations. Only together we can make the pleasure of flying prevail over its dangers. For more information: SafeSky Paul WINDEY Co-Founder Public Relations +32 497 41 10 65 www.safesky.app * The PREMIUM plan offers a number of additional comfort and compatibility features on top of the free plan which mainly focuses on safety.

  • Our second Newsletter of October is out!

    We had another busy but exciting month! Want to know more about it? Check out our most recent newsletter, which in particular reports on the following activities: 2022 General Aviation Day: a particularly instructive day with many of Europe's key public and private players in the general aviation industry Our Roadshow to Spain: a tribute to our Spanish users and partners Meet & Greet Alex Bagouet: an inspiring interview with our Spanish representative and your opportunity to share your feedback on SafeSky Flying puts a smile on a child's face: a wonderful co-initiative from SafeSky allowing impaired children to experience the joy of flight Even more support for you: our FAQ extended to answer all your questions Premium Discount: your last chance to take advantage of our "after summer" promotion Enjoy reading!

  • Version 2.07 is out!

    The SafeSky development team has not been idle since the recent Mondial de l'ULM. Like previous year, we carefully considered your feedback and gleaned knowledge from it. You will undoubtedly like the new version that has been produced as a result, which includes some fixes, improvements, and new features. In addition to being SafeSky users, we also consider you as partners in the creation and growth of SafeSky so that together we continuously increase everyone's safety. Please do not hesitate to send us your feedback and program enhancement ideas (forum or info@safesky.app). A big thanks in advance. Version 2.07 - new or improved features FREE & PREMIUM version Option to activate/deactivate display of your flying fellow pilots avatars on the map Automatic proposal of your hexadecimal transponder code when encoding call sign New, streamlined "Settings" page PREMIUM version SkyTraxx users can see the entire SafeSky traffic Optimised wind display (zoom/size) Improved weather information display

  • Our Newsletter August 2022

    Discover are SAR functionality and the incredible story of an Icelandic pilot in an emergency situation.

  • Flieger Magazin tests SafeSky

    In summary, how effective is the SafeSky app? "Our conclusion after our flights with SafeSky: as of now, we will always use the app. It provides a background warning, works with several of the navigation apps we use, and completes the cockpit's other collision notifications. The idea is interesting, especially when used with portable collision warning systems. These systems receive direct signals from ADS-B and sometimes FLARM, while SafeSky supplements Mode S transponders without ADS-B functionality, which nonetheless account for a significant portion of traffic." Thomas Borchert, Editor in Chief of Flieger Magazin, thoroughly tested SafeSky to objectively assess its benefits and areas of improvement. Discover his full article below. Safe flights.

  • BLOIS - The "Mondial de l'ULM" 2022

    Check out our latest newsletter with the following items: - The "Mondial de l'ULM" - The MAYDAY feature - Internet in flight

  • Newsletter 02 - AUGUST '22

    Check out our latest newsletter including SafeSky's participation in the Mondial de l'ULM and much more!

  • AERO 2022 - Friedrichshafen

    Discover our booth! From April 27 to 30, SafeSky will be present at the aerospace fair in Friedrichshafen. Come and visit us... You will discover SafeSky's compatibility with external devices such as Stratux, SkyEcho or PowerFlarm as well as navigation software. Several Stratux Europe Edition contributors will be available at the booth. Enjoy your visit. A6-315

  • AERO 2022

    SafeSky will be present in Friedrichshafen at this major European aerospace event. Come and visit us from 27 to 30 April 2022! STAND A6-315

  • Zara around the world!

    “If you believe, you can achieve”. And so she did! Zara Rutherford has set 2 new world records! She is the youngest woman to circumnavigate by aircraft solo She is the youngest person to circumnavigate solo by microlight This is an absolutely fantastic achievement, also because besides these records, Zara: Is the very first Belgian pilot to do so Has faced an incredibly difficult journey with numerous hick-ups and events Has set a record with a purpose, encouraging girls and women to study and work in STEM and pursue their dreams The international press is awash with tributes to her bravery, tenacity, and generosity. We encourage you to learn more about Zara's journey through the press coverage and be inspired! We at SafeSky are ecstatic to have been a part of Zara's incredible journey as a sponsor, fellow pilot and fan. “If you believe, you can achieve … and will succeed”. Zara's story only begins right now. We're confident we'll hear more about her in the not-too-distant future. But first and foremost, we wish her – and her incredible family and support team – a well-deserved rest!

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