SkeyDrone Operates First Automated BVLOS Drone Flight At DronePort For Remote Perimeter Inspection
On Wednesday, April 10, SkeyDrone achieved a significant milestone by operating the first fully automated drone flight at DronePort in Sint-Truiden. This groundbreaking flight, conducted beyond the pilot’s line of sight, aimed to conduct a remote perimeter inspection from the SkeyDrone operations center located in Steenokkerzeel. This technological feat was the result of a collaborative effort involving Brussels Airport, Airport Intelligence, SkeyDrone, and DronePort, and was organized as part of the ‘U-space in Practice’ event. This event is particularly significant as it aligns with Belgium’s presidency of the European Union, showcasing the country’s leadership in advancing drone technology and airspace regulation.
The Future of Aviation: U-space and Drone Technology
Drone technology continues to revolutionize various industries, offering a plethora of possibilities that are reshaping the future of aviation and airspace management. At the heart of this transformation is U-space, a framework that enables fully automated drone flights on a large scale through a set of agreements and rules.
The European Union launched the U-space project in 2018 with the goal of creating a safe low airspace for long-distance drone flights. By 2023, the U-space regulation became effective, paving the way for the integration of drones into the airspace. Given Belgium’s proactive role in implementing U-space regulations, the Federal Government organized the ‘U-space in Practice’ event to commemorate the first anniversary of this groundbreaking regulation. The drone operation at DronePort in Sint-Truiden serves as a testament to Belgium’s commitment to driving innovation in the drone industry.
Drones: A Versatile Tool for Remote Perimeter Inspections
The recent test case at DronePort showcased the versatility of drones as a tool for conducting remote perimeter inspections. Utilizing a ‘drone in a box’ (DiaB) platform, the test involved a ‘beyond visual line of sight’ (BVLOS) flight, where the drone operated outside the pilot’s line of sight. Remarkably, the drone’s camera was controlled remotely from approximately 60 kilometers away at SkeyDrone’s operations center in Steenokkerzeel. BVLOS flights hold immense potential for various sectors, offering a solution for inspections in difficult-to-reach locations or areas with large surfaces.
Ensuring Safety and Operational Efficiency
What sets this test case apart is the comprehensive digital services established by DronePort in collaboration with SkeyDrone to ensure safety and maintain operational efficiency at the airport. Accurate detection of all air traffic near the airport, including drones and crewed aircraft, was crucial for the success of the BVLOS flight. Additionally, the use of a flight management system played a pivotal role in coordinating and monitoring the drone’s flight path.
A Dynamic Alternative to Traditional Surveillance Methods
The advent of drones equipped with live-streaming capabilities offers a dynamic alternative to traditional surveillance methods. Unlike fixed cameras, a « flying camera » can generate live images from various angles, making inspections more dynamic and comprehensive. This innovative approach not only enhances the efficiency of inspection services but also opens up new possibilities for leveraging drone technology across different industries.
Conclusion: Pioneering Drone Solutions at DronePort
DronePort, as a former airport, provides an ideal testing ground for developing and implementing innovative drone solutions. The success of the recent BVLOS flight test at DronePort underscores the potential of drones to meet market needs and align with the evolving demands of various industries.
As Belgium continues to lead the way in advancing U-space regulations and drone technology, we can expect to see more groundbreaking initiatives that will shape the future of aviation and airspace management. This collaborative effort between Brussels Airport, Airport Intelligence, SkeyDrone, and DronePort serves as a living lab, paving the way for the continued development and implementation of drone solutions that are set to transform the way we inspect and monitor our surroundings.
