On October 23, 2025, within the framework of the ATM Chair (Isdefe-ETSIAE UPM) of the Horizontes Network, the Technical Conference on Stratospheric Operations with HAPS (High Altitude Platform System) was held at the Isdefe Assembly Hall.
During the conference, experts from the public and private sectors shared their vision on this innovative technology, which allows offering connectivity and Earth observation services through stratospheric aircraft such as airships, hot air balloons and solar drones. HAPS operate at an altitude of about 20 km, offering higher resolution and lower latency than traditional satellites, as well as allowing rapid and flexible deployment with lower operating costs.
The event was attended by prominent institutional representatives:
- Andrés López Morales, Deputy Director General of Air Navigation and Airports of the DGAC, explained Spain’s situation in stratospheric operations and stressed the need for a solid regulatory framework and coordination between civil and military actors.
- Patricia Perez de Juan, Director of Air Navigation at AESA, addressed the current status and evolution of the regulatory framework for HAPS, noting the challenges of certification, cybersecurity and standardization of high altitude operations.
- TCol. Garcia Paniagua The Air and Space Chief of Staff stressed the importance of airspace control, surveillance and interoperability between civilian and military applications.
- Pablo Haro, from EUROCONTROL, presented the ongoing European projects to develop operational concepts and specific regulations for HAPS.
For their part, industry representatives demonstrated the practical applications and technological innovation of HAPS:
- Jesus A. Garcia, Head of ENAIRE‘s ATFCM/ASM Division, explained the role of air navigation service providers in these operations.
- Alfredo Serrano, Director of Sceye Europe, presented the HAPS LTA airships.
- Miriam Royo, Director of Elson Space Spain, showed the fixed-wing solar drones (HAPS HTA).
- Alejandro Ibrahim and Eduardo Pereira, responsible for the Teruel and Fuerteventura airports, shared their experience in the infrastructure and operation of these strategic facilities for Spain.
The moderators of the round tables, Jaime Torrecilla (Isdefe Transport Manager) and Fernando Gómez Comendador (Professor ETSIAE-UPM), led the discussions on the opportunities, challenges and applications of this technology.
The conference provided an opportunity to reflect on the development of stratospheric operations in Spain and Europe, highlighting the country’s privileged position and the importance of collaboration between institutions, industry and regulators to consolidate this emerging sector.