JEDA strengthens European drone unity with new members and research partnership in Zadar
Drone leaders from across Europe convened in Zadar, Croatia, on June 6, 2025, for the Annual General Assembly of the Joint European Drone Association (JEDA). This gathering marked a significant step towards expanding collaboration and fostering unity in airspace integration efforts within the bustling drone industry. Representatives from more than 15 national drone associations, including those from Ireland, Austria, Sweden, and France, spotlighted the growing enthusiasm for cross-border partnerships in this rapidly evolving sector.
The assembly's agenda showcased a series of presentations by influential figures from regulatory and aviation authorities. Damir Bezik of the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency shed light on Croatia's current regulatory framework for drones, providing context for the country’s approach to fostering innovation while ensuring safety. Ranko Vuica from Croatia Control Ltd. discussed advancements in U-space—a concept designed to manage drone traffic safely in shared airspace—alongside updates on the AMC Portal, essential tools for operational safety.
EASA representative Natale di Rubbo contributed insights on the ongoing progression of drone regulations throughout Europe. His focus was on ensuring that member states adopt consistent policies that can effectively govern the increasing complexity of drone operations. Adding a broader perspective, Phil Kenul of ASTM International spoke about global safety standards and the importance of aligning local regulations with international best practices.
During the assembly, JEDA's Executive Board welcomed new member associations from Sweden, Poland, and Denmark, enhancing the association's reach and reinforcing the collaborative spirit that is vital as drone operations become more multifaceted. This expansion underscores the urgency for regional cooperation to address the evolving demands of the drone sector.
A highlight of the event was the official signing of a collaboration agreement between JEDA and the European Aerospace Science Network (EASN). This partnership aims to bridge the gap between drone manufacturers and research institutions, propelling innovation across European aerospace and drone industries. By fostering synergies between academia and industry, the agreement is poised to catalyse advancements in technology and operational safety Standards.
Looking forward, JEDA continues to champion the integration of Europe’s drone industry, focusing on safety, innovation, and regulatory harmony. As drone usage expands across the continent, the association is dedicated to ensuring a seamless integration of drones into existing airspace systems. “JEDA remains committed to fostering a unified European voice for the drone industry, advancing safe integration into airspace, and promoting technological development and regulatory harmonisation across member states,” the organisation stated.
Zadar’s hosting of such an influential event not only emphasises Croatia's role as a key player in the drone ecosystem but also highlights the city’s broader appeal as a destination for conferences and technology forums. In the upcoming months, Zadar is set to host a variety of events, from the European Archaeology Days to significant symposiums on various technological advancements, suggesting that the region is becoming a focal point for dialogue around innovation and collaboration in diverse fields.
As the drone industry in Europe gears up for an exciting phase of growth, JEDA's Annual General Assembly stands as a testament to the commitment of various stakeholders to build a safer, more integrated airspace for drone operations, paving the way for future breakthroughs in this innovative field.