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Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Advancing Innovation and Compliance in the Global Drone Economy
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, have transformed industries ranging from logistics and agriculture to defense and entertainment. As commercial and governmental uses expand, so too do the legal, regulatory, and operational complexities surrounding their deployment.
At SJKP LLP, our UAS team brings together deep aviation regulatory expertise, technological understanding, and global compliance insight to help clients navigate the fast-evolving UAS ecosystem. From certification and export licensing to data protection and liability management, we provide comprehensive legal strategies to advance innovation while minimizing regulatory risk.
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1. The Expanding Role of UAS in Global Industry
The UAS market is no longer limited to recreational or military applications. Commercial use cases now include aerial mapping, package delivery, infrastructure inspection, emergency response, and precision agriculture.
SJKP LLP advises developers, operators, investors, and manufacturers across the full lifecycle of UAS deployment, ensuring compliance with rapidly evolving aviation and data laws.
Commercial and Industrial Applications
We advise clients on UAS integration into logistics, energy, construction, and agriculture sectors while ensuring compliance with airspace and safety standards.
Defense and Public Sector Operations
Our team represents defense contractors and public agencies developing or operating UAS for surveillance, border security, and tactical use.
2. Regulatory Compliance and Certification
Operating UAS lawfully requires navigating a complex landscape of national and international aviation regulations.
SJKP LLP advises on compliance with FAA Part 107 and 135, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) frameworks, and emerging standards in Asia-Pacific jurisdictions.
We also assist in obtaining waivers for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations and night flights.
FAA, EASA, and Global Licensing
We assist clients in certification of operators, pilots, and aircraft types, including remote ID compliance and airworthiness approvals.
Safety Management and Airspace Coordination
Our lawyers coordinate with aviation authorities to secure access to controlled airspace and establish operational safety programs.
3. Export Controls, Sanctions, and Technology Transfer
UAS technology often contains dual-use components subject to export control and sanctions laws.
SJKP LLP advises manufacturers, integrators, and software providers on compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and related foreign regimes.
Export Licensing and Classification
We assist clients in classifying UAS hardware and software under appropriate export control schedules and obtaining necessary licenses.
Sanctions and End-User Screening
Our lawyers advise on sanctions compliance and due diligence for international transactions involving sensitive technologies.
4. Data Governance, Cybersecurity, and Privacy
UAS operations inherently involve the collection, transmission, and storage of high-value data.
We counsel clients on data ownership, cybersecurity standards, and compliance with privacy laws governing aerial imagery and geospatial data.
Data Ownership and Storage Compliance
We assist clients in structuring agreements governing ownership, retention, and sharing of aerial data among operators, customers, and governments.
Cybersecurity and Supply Chain Risk Management
Our lawyers develop cybersecurity frameworks addressing encryption, data integrity, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
5. Insurance, Liability, and Risk Mitigation
Accidents, data breaches, or airspace incursions involving UAS can expose companies to significant legal and financial risk.
SJKP LLP provides counsel on insurance coverage, indemnity clauses, and liability allocation in UAS operations and contracts.
Insurance Coverage for UAS Operations
We advise on aviation, cyber, and general liability coverage tailored for drone operations.
Contractual Liability and Indemnification
Our team drafts indemnity and limitation-of-liability clauses in UAS manufacturing, leasing, and service agreements.
6. Litigation, Enforcement, and Regulatory Defense
As enforcement actions and disputes rise with UAS proliferation, companies must be prepared for administrative investigations, enforcement, or private litigation.
SJKP LLP represents clients in regulatory inquiries, enforcement defense, and civil litigation related to UAS operations, accidents, and privacy violations.
Enforcement and Regulatory Proceedings
We represent clients in FAA enforcement actions, civil penalties, and appeals involving operational or registration violations.
Civil and Contractual Disputes
Our litigators handle negligence, privacy, and contract claims involving UAS operations and data use.
7. Innovation, Sustainability, and the Future of UAS
As UAS technology evolves toward advanced air mobility (AAM) and sustainable aviation, legal frameworks must adapt to new challenges.
SJKP LLP advises innovators on integrating electric propulsion, hydrogen fuel, and autonomous navigation within existing aviation and environmental regimes.
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Urban Integration
We assist in regulatory planning for eVTOL aircraft and urban air mobility systems integrating drones into city airspace.
ESG and Sustainable Aviation Compliance
Our lawyers advise on ESG reporting, emissions standards, and green financing structures for UAS developers and operators.
8. Why Choose SJKP LLP for UAS Counsel
Technical Mastery. Regulatory Clarity. Strategic Foresight.
SJKP LLP’s UAS practice stands at the forefront of aviation innovation and regulatory evolution.
We bring together aerospace engineers, former regulators, and experienced aviation attorneys to deliver forward-looking legal counsel that bridges technology and law.
Whether advising startups developing next-generation drone platforms or established corporations managing global fleets, we help clients soar—securely, efficiently, and legally.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading or relying on the contents of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship with our firm. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
Certain informational content on this website may utilize technology-assisted drafting tools and is subject to attorney review.
