2026 Agenda

Civil High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) are rapidly evolving from experimental concepts to operational reality, challenging existing assumptions about airspace design, regulation, and safety oversight. This panel uses the first authorised civil HAPS operation in Spain, which conducts regular flights, as a case study to explore the real-world requirements for integrating platforms operating at the boundary between aviation and near-space into controlled airspace.

Led by Juanjo Sola and Rafael Pecos Macías of Murzilli Consulting, and with the participation of operational and infrastructure partners such as CATEC, Telespazio Ibérica, and the Fuerteventura Technology Park (Canarias Stratoport for HAPS & UAS), the discussion will examine regulatory strategy, airspace structuring, coordination with authorities, challenges, and lessons learned. The session will provide practical information for regulators, air navigation service providers (ANSPs), and industry stakeholders preparing for the next phase of high-altitude operations in Europe.