Hypersonix advocates regulatory reform to remove technology obstacles

Brisbane-based Hypersonix Launch Systems has launched an advocacy campaign to reshape the global regulatory environment which hobbles the introduction of hypersonic technology.

Hypersonic drones, poised to revolutionize aerospace, space, and defence, have the potential to redefine industries such as cargo delivery, emergency response, surveillance, transportation and satellite launches, says the company. Yet, outdated regulations may threaten to hinder their full potential.

The company’s Head of Regulatory Affairs, Joe Urli, is a staunch advocate for adapting regulatory frameworks and policies to match the rapid evolution of hypersonic aircraft technology. Hypersonic travel is expected to become a reality in the 2030s and Australia should prepare to have the necessary regulations in place now – to not miss out on this opportunity to play a major role.

He urges the government, “to make hypersonic drones regulations in Australia a priority as the appetite for hypersonics speeds does not stop there, but this is where it starts to make hypersonic travel a reality one day as well.”

A former Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) air transport safety inspector, Joe Urli is an experienced aviation regulatory reform expert and participated in NASA’s airspace operations safety program in the USA.

Streamlining regulatory and air traffic control processes for uncrewed aircraft – initially designed for slower, lower-altitude and piloted systems – and fostering collaboration among governments, regulatory bodies, and industry stakeholders, is imperative to harness the true potential of hypersonic technology, the company says.

Hypersonix underscores the critical importance of regulatory reforms to fully unleash the promise of hypersonic drones in Australia. Failing to address this pressing need could impede domestic industry growth and stifle innovation. Harmonizing concepts like FAA’s ETM cooperative separation are key to establishing hypersonic corridors that can safely integrate into national airspace systems.

Despite Concorde’s retirement in the early 2000’s, the appetite for supersonic and hypersonic air travel remains strong, Hypersonix Launch Systems believes. Airlines such as American airlines, United airlines and Virgin Atlantic have placed orders with Boom Supersonic and expect to carry their first passengers in 2029.