Airspace World 2025 in Lisbon is shaping up to be one of the most defining events for the global aviation and drone industry. As part of the ongoing dialogue around airspace modernisation, Eszter Kovács, CEO and Co-founder of DroneTalks, sat down with Michelle Bishop, Director of Programmes at CANSO (Civil Air Navigation Services Organization), for a conversation on the future of air traffic management and the recently released CATS ConOps (Concept of Operations).
What is the CATS ConOps and why it matters now
At the core of the industry discussions in Lisbon is the Complete Air Traffic System (CATS) Global Council’s Concept of Operations, a comprehensive roadmap for transitioning to a digitally enabled, integrated airspace. The ConOps is more than a vision document, it’s a practical “how-to guide” for transforming the global air traffic system.
“The ConOps outlines the phases and technical requirements for accommodating both traditional and new airspace users, including drones, eVTOLs, and high-altitude platforms,” said Michelle Bishop. The document is a result of collaboration across a wide coalition of aviation stakeholders and aims to ensure safety, efficiency, and equitable access to airspace in an increasingly diverse ecosystem.
Integrating eVTOLs, drones, and new entrants into controlled airspace
One of the most pressing challenges discussed was the integration of new entrants — from drone delivery fleets to eVTOLs —into controlled and uncontrolled airspace. As Michelle emphasised, “This is a complete transformation. Traditional traffic is growing, and so is the number of new entrants. We must maintain high safety standards while adapting to a more complex airspace landscape.”
Key to this integration is advanced digitalisation and collaboration. The ConOps recognises that many emerging aviation technologies already have greater digital capabilities than traditional aircraft. Leveraging those capabilities—along with Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems—will be essential in maintaining safe, scalable operations.
Digital airspace: the timeline for transformation
For those wondering when this transformation will happen, Mishelle offered a clear timeline: digitisation is happening now, with full implementation expected over the next 7–10 years. This includes the shift to trajectory-based operations, where flight paths are planned gate-to-gate and automatically de-conflicted with other users in real time.
“This evolution depends on building a digital backbone across the system—enabling seamless information sharing and real-time situational awareness,” she explained.
From segregated airspace to full integration
While segregated corridors for drones and urban air mobility are useful in the short term, the ConOps stresses that such an approach is not sustainable long-term. Cutting up airspace into exclusive zones can lead to inefficiencies and unfair access.
Instead, the goal is a fully integrated airspace, where all users — regardless of aircraft type — can access the skies safely and fairly, supported by digital infrastructure and data-sharing protocols.
Foundational changes: from magnetic to true north and beyond
The CATS ConOps also highlights some surprisingly simple yet critical changes, such as shifting from magnetic north to true north for navigation. As Michelle explained, “This is necessary if we want consistency across all aircraft types, including drones and eVTOLs.” Altogether, the document outlines 18 key transformations, ranging from digitization to operational restructuring and new service offerings, all designed to support a safe and inclusive aviation future.
The role of AI in Air Traffic Management
With AI dominating headlines across industries, it's no surprise that the airspace sector is also embracing it. As Michelle noted, several Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) are already using AI-powered digital twins for airspace simulations and weather-related flow management.
Phase two of the ConOps envisions an even greater role for AI-driven automation, not just to optimize systems but to augment the role of humans in traffic management. “AI will help simplify complexity,” she said, “and ultimately ease the workload for operators.”
Looking ahead to 2045: a dynamic, connected airspace
By 2045, the airspace will look radically different. Commercial aviation will continue to grow, but drones, eVTOLs, and high-altitude platforms will outnumber traditional aircraft. We’ll see seamless integration across all altitudes, from urban delivery corridors to commercial space launches.
“Airspace will become more dynamic, more intelligent, and more connected,” said Michelle. “And that transformation is already underway.”
A call to drone and eVTOL companies: be part of the change
For companies in the drone and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors, the message is clear: Get involved now.
“The ConOps is a living document,” emphasised Michelle. “Read it, share your feedback, and become part of the ecosystem shaping the digital airspace of the future.” The full CATS ConOps is available at futureskyvision.com, where companies and regulators alike are invited to engage with its findings and help build a globally aligned airspace system.
Final thoughts
As Eszter Kovács and Michelle Bishop wrapped up their conversation, one theme stood out: drones and digitalisation are no longer optional — they are driving the transformation of the entire aviation ecosystem.
From Lisbon’s buzzing exhibition halls to future cities powered by smart air mobility, one thing is certain: the future of airspace is digital, inclusive, and collaborative.
Are you a decision-maker?
Are you interested in being at the forefront of drone technology? Sponsor our exclusive, invite-only event Aerial Cities, where industry leaders, government officials, and key players discuss the integration of drones into urban landscapes.
