Authors: Andrea Giannobile, Paolo Spagnoletti
Abstract:In the picturesque yet rugged terrains of Northern Italy, a distress call from the Alpine emergency services signals an urgent situation: a hiker has been severely injured during a climb. The hiker is located in a remote, mountainous area where weather conditions are deteriorating, and the terrain is too challenging for traditional rescue methods. The clock is ticking, and the need for an immediate response is paramount. Emergency responders are faced with a dilemma—how can they quickly and safely reach the injured hiker before the situation worsens? This scenario underscores the vital role of advanced air service technology. The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), responsible for overseeing airspace safety and compliance, coordinates the deployment of a medical emergency drone. This decision reflects a broader trend in aviation technology, where Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) are becoming essential tools in enhancing not only emergency response
operations but also other critical sectors such as logistics, infrastructure inspection, and
transportation. The integration of these innovative technologies into existing airspace
systems is not without its challenges. Safety, regulatory compliance, and airspace
management become more complex as the skies fill with manned and unmanned vehicles.
To address these challenges, ENAC embarked on a transformative project—HyperTwin.
This sophisticated digital twin platform is designed to streamline the authorization and
management of innovative air services like drone operations. By utilizing advanced
simulations and real-time data analysis, HyperTwin aims to improve decision-making and
ensure the safety of airspace in complex and critical situations.
In this teaching case, we will explore the strategic decision-making processes behind
HyperTwin’s development, the technological challenges ENAC faced, the collaborative
efforts with various stakeholders, and the communication strategies employed. This case
not only provides a detailed look at how HyperTwin came to be but also delves into broader
implications of digital transformation for the aviation industry and public administration.
