The port of Rotterdam is on the eve of a major change in the use of low-level airspace. Drone traffic is growing rapidly, both in commercial and governmental settings. This increases the need for safety, oversight and resilience.

Low-level airspace (up to 500 ft, approximately 150 metres) is increasingly used by drones, but also by crewed aviation such as helicopters. To manage this airspace safely and in an orderly manner, the Port of Rotterdam Authority is taking the initiative to structure it in accordance with the European U‑space rules. This will create a coordinated system for safe operation of both crewed and uncrewed aviation.

What is U‑space airspace?

U‑space airspace is a traffic control system for drones, based on agreements, protocols, communication tools and technical standards. Within this designated airspace, drone flights are only permitted with the support of these services. Both crewed and uncrewed aviation must notify the authorities in advance before entering the airspace.

U‑space primarily enhances aviation safety and ensures the legal use of drones is transparent. In addition, the Port Authority provides a robust framework for identifying unwanted or unregistered drones and taking more effective action against them.

First step: pre-U‑space

In recent years, the Prototype U‑space Rotterdam has laid the groundwork through various studies and coordination with the government, Defence, the inland terminal and other stakeholders.

Pre-U‑space is the first formal phase towards a fully operational U‑space airspace. This phase focuses on registration, admission policy and authorisation of drone flights.

It will establish a clear and controlled airspace, allowing more types of drone operations, while increasing resilience against non-cooperative drones. By gaining insight into regular and legal air traffic, it becomes easier to identify unusual or unwanted activity.

In this phase, steps are being taken such as establishing admission policies and, where necessary, introducing temporary or permanent flight restrictions over sensitive locations. Legal drone users become will become visible, which supports the enforcement of local rules.

Pre-U‑space will be legally embedded in Dutch aviation legislation through amendments to airspace and flight procedures. Design documents and risk analyses are being developed for this purpose. Once the airspace is legally designated, obligations will apply to both crewed and uncrewed aircraft operating within it.

Resilience against drones

Distinguishing between registered and unregistered drones is essential for effective enforcement. Knowing who is flying where enables authorities to separate regular operations from potentially risky or malicious activity more effectively.

Drones are sometimes used for illicit purposes, such as surveillance, reconnaissance or the introduction of prohibited goods into secured areas. The Port Authority is therefore also investing in sensor technology to detect non-cooperative drones.

Digital air traffic control

In a few years, a digital air traffic control system for both crewed and uncrewed aviation will represent the final step in establishing the U‑space airspace. With this system, the Port Authority is preparing the port for the future role of drones, providing a powerful tool for access control and creating capacity for innovative drone services.

The port of Rotterdam will thus serve as a national example for the design of low-level airspace, including above urban areas.