Antwerp-Bruges Gets UTM upgrade
Unifly, a Terra Drone Corporation group company specializing in Unmanned Aerial System Traffic Management (UTM) systems, in collaboration with SkeyDrone, proudly declares a major upgrade to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ (PoAB) UTM system, DronePortal. This enhancement goals to bolster the efficiency of drone operations throughout the complex airspace of the Port of Antwerp, while also extending support to the Port of Bruges. The event signifies a vital advancement towards U-space readiness.
Operational since mid-March 2021, the PoAB DronePortal has processed over 5,000 flight authorizations, playing a pivotal role in navigating the evolving U-space landscape. The most recent upgrades include optimized automated approvals, enhanced integration support with drone operations, and enhancements in User Interface (UI)/User Experience (UX), all integrated into probably the most recent Unifly product version.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is poised to change into the primary official U-space airspace in Europe, marking a major milestone in uncrewed aerial operations. Hosting the very best volume of drone flights in Belgium, the port has emerged as a central hub for drone activities. The D-Hive project, facilitating scalable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone flights, together with various other drone operations, further solidifies the port’s position as a key player within the drone ecosystem.
Erwin Verstraelen, Chief Digital Information & Innovation Officer at Port of Antwerp-Bruges, emphasized the importance of innovation of their strategy, stating, “This partnership with SkeyDrone and Unifly reaffirms our commitment to fostering a sensible, connected, and future-ready port. Together, we’re shaping a brand new frontier in uncrewed aerial operations.”
Hendrik-Jan Van Der Gucht, Managing Director of SkeyDrone, highlighted the upgrade’s role in advancing U-space readiness, ensuring secure and seamless integration of unmanned aerial vehicles in European airspace.
Andres Van Swalm, CEO of Unifly, expressed excitement concerning the growing variety of drone operators preparing for autonomous flights. He underscored the importance of the recent system upgrade in extending support to the Port of Bruges and advancing PoAB towards U-Space readiness.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges, with an overall throughput of 271 million tonnes per 12 months, serves as an important link in global trade and industry. It accommodates 1,400 firms and provides around 164,000 jobs, generating an added value of 21 billion euros.
About SkeyDrone:
SkeyDrone, a three way partnership between the Belgian Air Navigation Service Provider skeyes and Brussels Airport Company, offers end-to-end solutions related to using uncrewed aircraft (drones), playing a pivotal role in implementing U-space in Belgium.
About Unifly:
Unifly NV, a Belgian-based technology provider of Unmanned Aircraft System Traffic Management (UTM), focuses on operational management systems for drones and Urban Air Mobility (UAM), with a proven track record in over eight countries.
About Terra Drone:
Terra Drone is a pioneering drone and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology company headquartered in Japan, aiming to create a prosperous future by integrating diverse fields to foster innovation and find solutions.
For more information, visit: Port of Antwerp-Bruges, SkeyDrone, Unifly, and Terra Drone.
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