UAS Reliability and Risk Analysis

Abstract In order to achieve safe and successful operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), one must have a thorough understanding of the reliability of the system as well as the risks involved with its operation. This chapter describes a model and methodology to assess and estimate the risk associated with a given UAS mission. Motivations for risk analysis as well as risk factors associated with UAS operation are also described. The risk model estimates threats to human safety that result from midair collisions and ground strikes. This framework aims to assist in determining applications that leverage the strengths of current unmanned aircraft technology while mitigating the weaknesses to meet or exceed the safety of manned aircraft. The intended use of the proposed risk framework is discussed and risk assessments are presented for several example scenarios.