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

The MoU was signed during TIACA's first event in Central Asia.

Some of the key points of the agreement include working collaboratively to enhance a safe global unmanned air cargo transport system; working towards educating and developing projects with governments and private entities to achieve an efficient industry in terms of costs and operations; promoting the specific needs of air cargo for the unmanned air cargo sector; promoting safety in the supply chain addressing where appropriate, global and national regulations as well as industry procedures, policies and practices.

It also seeks to promote sustainable solutions that enhance the role of unmanned air cargo operations in support of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

TIACA and JARUS will also exchange information and knowledge on topics of mutual interest.

"As unmanned air cargo transport becomes more prevalent within our industry, it is vital that we collaborate with organizations such as JARUS to ensure a safe, profitable and united air cargo industry. This agreement not only supports TIACA's sustainability program, but it also supports our vision for the industry," Steve Polmans, chair of TIACA, said.

"We look forward to working with JARUS to ensure that the unmanned air cargo transport sector of the industry can deliver its full potential," he added.

Giovanni DiAntonio, chair of JARUS, said the company is committed to developing recommendations for a harmonized and industry-friendly regulatory framework in collaboration with ICAO and other international organizations.

"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," he added.

For his part, Glyn Hughes, director general at TIACA, said the unmanned air cargo transport sector is a budding sector within the industry.

"We are pleased to support its growth and inclusion throughout the industry with the signing of this MoU," Hughes said.

Liu Hao, JARUS's secretary-general, noted that 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 prioritizing safety," Hao 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," commented Catalin Radu, general director, Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan.