What is the difference between UAS and UAV?

The choice that defines UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System) as the entire system, including operators, is accurate because it encompasses more than just the airframe itself. UAS includes not only the unmanned aircraft but also the control station, the communication links, and the personnel involved in operating the system. This wide-ranging definition emphasizes the complexity of operating an unmanned system, as it requires coordination between multiple components—both hardware and human operators—working together to achieve flight operations.

In contrast, UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) specifically refers to the aircraft component of the UAS. While UAVs are integral to unmanned flight, they do not include the additional necessary components like the control systems and operators that comprise the full operational system, which is why this distinction is critical. Understanding this differentiation helps clarify discussions about unmanned systems in aviation, emphasizing the broader context of how these technologies function together for safe and effective operations.