Faster drone flight approvals with FREQUENTIS automated risk assessment tool in Lithuania
Oro Navigacija, Lithuania’s air navigation service provider (ANSP), is pioneering a groundbreaking advancement in drone flight approval processes. By integrating a digital, automated risk assessment tool developed by Frequentis, Oro Navigacija aims to significantly expedite the classification of risk associated with drone flights. This innovation not only streamlines the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) process but also facilitates scalable beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, marking a significant leap forward in unmanned traffic management (UTM) capabilities.
Cutting-edge Technology for Expedited Risk Assessment:
Frequentis’ digital application, provided by skyzr, a member of the Frequentis Group, stands as the world’s first automated risk analysis tool tailored for drone operations. Compliant with guidelines established by the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking of Unmanned Systems and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), this tool drastically reduces the time required for operators to conduct risk assessments. With potential time savings of up to 75%, it represents a paradigm shift in efficiency and safety within the burgeoning drone industry.
Enabling Scalable Beyond Visual Line of Sight Operations:
The integration of an automated risk assessment tool not only accelerates the SORA process but also unlocks the potential for BVLOS operations on a scalable level. By swiftly identifying risk levels and corresponding mitigations, drone operators can navigate regulatory hurdles more efficiently, paving the way for expanded applications such as infrastructure inspection, delivery services, and emergency response.
A Trailblazing Addition to UTM Systems:
The introduction of Frequentis’ automated and digital risk analysis service, known as wingman, marks a significant enhancement to Lithuania’s UTM infrastructure. Designed to seamlessly integrate into the country’s future UTM system, wingman embodies the vision of creating a comprehensive drone ecosystem. By providing a user-friendly web and mobile application, Oro Navigacija empowers drone operators with a one-stop solution for accessing value-added services and navigating regulatory compliance.
Driving Innovation in Lithuanian Airspace Management:
In June 2023, Oro Navigacija made a strategic decision to enlist Frequentis’ proven UTM solution to facilitate the safe and efficient integration of drones into Lithuanian airspace. This partnership underscores Lithuania’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology and fostering innovation in air traffic management. By leveraging state-of-the-art solutions like Frequentis’ automated risk assessment tool, Lithuania solidifies its position as a frontrunner in the global drone industry.
“In Lithuania, as with the rest of the world, the commercial need for scalable drone operations is increasing. Therefore, we are pleased to be able to support our Lithuanian drone industry by providing “wingman” as first additional value-add service to create digital risk assessments for faster flight permissions,” said Saulius Batavičius, CEO Oro Navigacija. “We are pleased to continue working with Frequentis by extending our current UTM service portfolio, harnessing their experience from other drone integration projects, while incorporating the specific needs of our airspace.”
“Automated and efficient risk assessments for drone operations will add value and safety to the ecosystem and, in particular, for emergency services. skyzr is pleased to be providing this additional digital service for the first ANSP in Europe to facilitate commercially valuable and lifesaving drone use cases. The extension of the wingman application, alongside the Frequentis UTM system, will further enhance safety and conformance and the ability for drones to scale with the perceived demand,” says Markus Bardach, Managing Director skyzr.
The integration of Frequentis’ automated risk assessment tool represents a pivotal moment in Lithuania’s journey towards optimizing drone flight approvals and enhancing airspace management. With the potential to expedite processes, enable BVLOS operations, and bolster UTM capabilities, this innovation not only benefits drone operators but also sets a precedent for future advancements in air traffic management worldwide. As technology continues to evolve, collaborations between industry leaders like Frequentis and forward-thinking organizations like Oro Navigacija will shape the future of unmanned aviation, driving progress and innovation in the skies above.
