Ministry of Internal Affairs Invites Public Input on Airspace Utilization and Radio Policy Expansion

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has launched a campaign to gather public opinions on how radio policies should evolve with the expansion of airspace utilization. This opportunity is designed to ensure that policies keep pace with technological advancements in aerial vehicles such as flying cars, drones, and unmanned aircrafts. The period for submitting feedback extends from October 10 to November 10, 2023.

Background

In recent years, there has been significant progress in the use of airspace driven by innovations in aviation technology, especially concerning unmanned aerial vehicles and remote piloting. Concurrently, advancements in communication methods are emerging, including satellite constellations and High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS), which provide new communication avenues that can be utilized in the aviation sector. Recognizing the substantial changes in the airspace landscape, the Ministry has established a working group under the Information and Communications Council's Radio Effective Utilization Committee to explore policy directions and priority issues that need to be addressed.

Purpose of the Opinion Gathering

The gathering of opinions serves to inform and guide the discussions held by the working group on the future of radio utilization in accordance with the expanding usage of airspace. The Ministry invites stakeholders, industry members, and the general public to share insights and concerns related to radio policy in light of these developments.

Structure of the Opinion Submission

To participate, individuals and organizations are encouraged to submit their feedback based on the provided guidelines. Key details for submissions will be outlined in the official documents made available by the Ministry. Specifically, participants can refer to separate documents for the opinion gathering criteria and the submission format.

Submission Guidelines

The deadline for all submissions is November 10, 2023. Ensuring thorough and comprehensive feedback is critical as this input will play a vital role in shaping effective radio policies that can keep pace with emerging aerial technologies.

For further information, you can contact the Ministry's Bureau of Telecommunications, Radio Department at:

- Address: 2-1-2 Kasumigaseki, Chiyoda, Tokyo 100-8926, Japan
- Phone: 03-5253-5902 (Direct Line)
- Email: yuukou-joukuu-sagyouhan_atmark_ml.soumu.go.jp (replace _atmark_ with @)

This public input initiative underscores the importance of collaborative engagement between government entities and the public in the development of policies that will govern the use of airspace now and in the future.