Skyways Receives FAA Authorization for Gulf of Mexico Drone Flight
Skyways plans to fly its autonomous V2 aircraft from Gibson, Louisiana, to a Shell platform for a pipeline inspection and simulated equipment delivery.
FlyMarshall Newsroom1 min read
Photo: UAS Vision
The FAA authorized Skyways to operate its autonomous V2 vertical takeoff and landing aircraft between Shell’s SPLC facility in Gibson, Louisiana, and a Shell platform in the Gulf of Mexico, according to reporting published November 11, 2026.
Key details
- The authorization was reported as issued on November 9, 2026.
- The operation includes a pipeline right-of-way inspection and a simulated equipment delivery to the offshore platform.
- The reporting says the FAA used a waiver pathway under Section 927 of the Reauthorization Act of 2024.
The planned operation includes a pipeline right-of-way inspection and a simulated equipment delivery to a Shell platform.
Why it matters
The planned flight combines an offshore route with two operational tasks: inspecting a pipeline right-of-way and simulating delivery of equipment. Skyways’ V2 is a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, allowing it to depart from the Louisiana facility for the offshore destination.
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