Tag: bvlos

Sizing the future drone and advanced air mobility market in Australia

Drone & AAM in Australia

Sizing the Future Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Market in Australia: Drone & AAM in Australia

Australia’s drone and advanced air mobility (AAM) sectors are on the cusp of a transformative era. Recent analyses forecast a significant surge in drone operations, projecting an increase from 1.5 million flights in 2023 to over 60 million by 2043. (Airservices Australia) This anticipated growth underscores the nation’s evolving technological landscape and its readiness to embrace innovative aerial solutions.

đź“„ Read the full report: Sizing the Future Drone Industry in Australia (PDF)

Key Drivers of Growth: Drone & AAM in Australia

Transport and Logistics

The transport and logistics sector is poised to be the primary catalyst for this expansion. By 2043, it’s expected to account for approximately 77% of all drone flights, translating to around 50 million annual operations. (Airservices Australia) This surge is driven by the demand for rapid delivery services, with drones offering efficient solutions for transporting goods, medical supplies, and food directly to consumers.

Agriculture

Drones are revolutionizing farming. By 2043, 500,000 drone flights per year are projected in the agricultural sector. (Airservices Australia) Farmers are using drones for crop monitoring, soil analysis, and precision agriculture, which enhances yield predictions and sustainable farming practices.

Emergency and Public Safety Services

Emergency services are also embracing drone technology. By 2043:

  • 300,000+ drone flights are expected to support police operations.
  • 80,000 drone flights will aid surf lifesaving efforts.
  • 100,000 hydrogen-powered air ambulance flights will transport patients to hospitals each year. (Airservices Australia)

The Rise of Air Taxis

By 2043, nearly 1 million air taxi flights per year are projected. Industry leaders plan to launch electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis in Australia, aligning with major events like the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane. (Airservices Australia) These aircraft will redefine urban transportation, offering faster, more sustainable travel options.

Technology and Regulation

The evolution of drone technology—including better battery life, payload capacity, and autonomous navigation—is fueling this market growth. However, regulatory advancements are just as crucial. A collaborative approach between government, industry, and communities is essential to develop safe, privacy-conscious, and accessible airspace rules.

Airservices Australia is addressing these challenges with the development of a Flight Information Management System (FIMS). This system will integrate drones, air taxis, and traditional aircraft, ensuring safe and efficient air traffic coordination. (More on FIMS)

Sizing the future drone and advanced air mobility market in Australia

Economic and Social Impact

The expansion of drones and AAM in Australia presents significant economic opportunities. This growth is expected to:
âś… Create new jobs in drone operations, manufacturing, and air traffic management.
âś… Attract investments and boost local industries.
âś… Enhance quality of life, especially in remote areas, by improving medical deliveries, emergency response, and urban mobility.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the opportunities, several challenges remain:
âš  Public concerns about noise pollution and airspace congestion.
âš  Regulatory complexities in integrating drones into controlled airspace.
âš  Infrastructure requirements for drone landing zones and charging stations.

Ongoing community engagement, transparent policies, and sustainable technologies will be key to overcoming these hurdles.

Conclusion: Drone & AAM in Australia

Australia is at the forefront of a drone and AAM revolution. With strategic planning, innovation, and regulatory evolution, the nation is set to become a global leader in next-generation air mobility. As drones become an everyday presence, ensuring safety, efficiency, and inclusivity will be crucial to their success.

đź“„ For full insights, check out the Airservices Australia report:
đź“Ś Sizing the Future Drone Industry in Australia (PDF)

Automated Risk Assesments

Automated Operational Risk Assessment, Enabler or Hurdle?

The most recent ANRA Huddle webinar provided a deep dive into one of the most critical components of safe and scalable drone operations: automated operational risk assessment. As the global unmanned aviation ecosystem continues to evolve, understanding how to effectively assess and manage operational risks has never been more important.

The Role of Automated Risk Assessment Tools

A major focus of the webinar was the transformative role that automated operational risk assessment tools are playing in the future of drone operations. With these tools, safety evaluations are becoming more efficient, accurate, and scalable. By automating the risk assessment process, operators can more easily integrate the JARUS SORA methodology into Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems, ultimately linking operational planning with real-time airspace management.

As drone operations scale, manual assessments can become time-consuming and prone to human error. Automated tools address this by streamlining the process and allowing for quicker, more consistent risk evaluations. The integration of automated assessments is helping operators stay compliant while also adapting to the dynamic nature of shared airspace.

Key Takeaways from the Webinar

  1. Faster Approvals & Scalable Operations
    With automation, risk assessments can be done more quickly, allowing for faster approvals. This is especially crucial in an industry where time is of the essence and scalability is a top priority.
  2. Improved Safety Metrics
    Automated tools are enhancing safety by ensuring that risk assessments are consistent and reliable, even as operational conditions change.
  3. Addressing Challenges
    The discussion also touched on the challenges of standardizing automated assessments and ensuring system interoperability. While automation offers numerous benefits, there are still hurdles to overcome, especially in terms of ensuring that different systems and platforms can communicate effectively.
  4. Dynamic Adaptation to Changing Conditions
    The ability for automated assessments to adapt to real-time changes in airspace conditions was highlighted as one of the major advantages. This allows for a more flexible and responsive approach to managing risk, which is critical in a fast-evolving industry like UAS.

Expert Panel Insights

The webinar featured an engaging panel of experts, each bringing their unique perspective on operational risk management and the role of automation:

  • Jackie Dujmovic, Founder & CEO of Hover UAV, shared her vast experience in uncrewed aviation safety, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
  • Julie Garland, Founder & CEO of Avtrain, discussed her work in drone training and compliance across Europe, emphasizing the importance of operational safety.
  • Joerg Dittrich, Senior Expert in Drone Regulations and Leader of the JARUS WG-SRM, offered invaluable insights into how safety and risk management frameworks like JARUS SORA are shaping the future of drone operations.
  • Jarrett Larrow, Policy & Rulemaking Lead at the FAA, shared his vision on how evolving policies are impacting operational risk management and the future of drone regulations.
  • Amit Ganjoo, Founder & CEO of ANRA Technologies, moderated the panel and guided the discussion, offering his perspective on the role of automation in driving UAS integration.

Conclusion: Are Automated Risk Assessments the Key to the Future?

The panel concluded with a thought-provoking question: Are automated operational risk assessments the key to unlocking the next level of UAS integration, or do they pose new challenges that need innovative solutions? While automation certainly holds promise for faster approvals, scalable operations, and improved safety metrics, the need for standardization and interoperability is still a significant barrier.

As drone operations continue to grow and become more complex, integrating these tools effectively will be crucial for ensuring both safety and efficiency in shared airspace.

If you missed the live webinar, you can watch the full recording here to gain further insights into how automated operational risk assessment tools are shaping the future of drone operations.

BVLOS Approvals Made Easy

BVLOS Approvals Made Easy

The BVLOS Approval Process

Achieving a BVLOS approval is a process that involves meeting regulatory requirements, assessing risks, and ensuring all procedures are compliant and operationally sound. At Hover UAV, we streamline this into what we call the BVLOS Approval Cycle—a seamless flow of proceedings designed to get you from concept to approval efficiently.

Risk Assessment and Safety Case Development 

Everything begins with understanding the risks that would be derived from your Concept of Operations (CONOPS). Using the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework, we evaluate the air and ground risks for your proposed operational area. This ensures a solid foundation for your BVLOS application, complete with effective mitigation strategies and a fully developed BVLOS Safety Case.

Creating BVLOS Procedures

Comprehensive procedures form the backbone of any BVLOS operation. These procedures apply to all flights, as well as location-specific procedures tailored to your operational area. Designed to align with CASA’s and the CAA’s standards while ensuring practical usability for your team is something of the highest priority at Hover UAV. BVLOS Approvals Made Easy.

Operations Manual Integration

The new procedures must be incorporated into your organisation’s Remote Operator Certificate (ReOC) Operations Manual.  Hover UAV ensures a seamless update that meets all regulatory requirements.

Application Submission

Once the documentation is complete, the application is prepared and submitted to CASA or the CAA. This includes the BVLOS Safety Case, updated Operations Manual, and Form 101-09. Hover UAV manages this process on your behalf, ensuring accuracy and professionalism with complete transparency.

Flight Demonstration

For organisations pursuing their first BVLOS approval, CASA may require a demonstration flight. Hover UAV provides the guidance and preparation you need to successfully showcase your BVLOS operations, ensuring that your team is confident and ready.


Why Hover UAV is Your Trusted Partner

BVLOS Approvals Made Easy – Hover UAV’s BVLOS Approval Cycle is designed to make a complex process simple. Here’s why we’re the go-to choice for businesses aiming to expand their operations:

  • Proven Expertise: We have successfully obtained numerous successful BVLOS approvals for clients across Australia and New Zealand, showcasing our deep understanding of regulatory processes and our ability to meet regulator expectations for BVLOS operations.
  • Comprehensive Support: From risk assessments to flight tests, we handle every aspect of your approval process.
  • Tailored Solutions: Every BVLOS operation is unique, and our solutions are customised to suit your specific needs and operational goals.
  • Efficiency: With a deep understanding of CASA requirements, we streamline the process to minimise delays and get you approved faster.
  • Resources and Training: Hover UAV provides SORA training, BVLOS procedures, BVLOS OCTA exam preparation, and ongoing support to equip and empower your team for success in your BVLOS approval.

When you choose Hover UAV, you’re choosing a partner that is committed to your success with a proven track record of success.


Take the Next Step – BVLOS Approvals Made Easy

BVLOS operations have the potential to revolutionise your business. Don’t let the complexity of approvals stand in your way. Hover UAV’s BVLOS Approval Cycle takes the stress out of the process, allowing you to focus on the opportunities ahead.

Visit Hover UAV today to learn more and begin your journey toward BVLOS approval. Helping YOU move forward!

Monitoring Energy Infrastructure

Monitoring Energy Infrastructure with Endeavour Energy

Monitoring Energy Infrastructure – In the evolving landscape of energy infrastructure management, Endeavour Energy in New South Wales (NSW) is at the forefront, demonstrating how innovation and strategic partnerships can lead to transformative outcomes. This case study explores Endeavour Energy’s pioneering use of drone technology for infrastructure inspections, a key component of its commitment to a secure, efficient, and sustainable energy future, with Hover UAV playing a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

Endeavour Energy’s Innovative Approach

Endeavour Energy’s initiative to inspect 13,000 km of energy infrastructure annually using drone technology marks a significant shift towards digitalisation and proactive infrastructure management. This effort responds to the increasing challenges of natural disasters such as storms, heat waves, and bushfires, emphasising the need for an innovative approach to maintaining and securing energy infrastructure.

Using drones for power line inspections exemplifies a leap forward in preventive maintenance, offering a safer, faster, and more accurate method compared to traditional inspection techniques. Drones reduce the risk of bushfires by highlighting vegetation encroachment, enhancing the reliability of the energy supply, and minimising noise and privacy intrusions for customers. Endeavour Energy’s proactive communication strategy, including notifying customers before drone operations, reflects its commitment to transparency and community engagement.

Monitoring Energy Infrastructure

The Role of Hover UAV: A Focused Contribution

Hover UAV’s involvement in the program is pivotal but measured, focusing specifically on ensuring the safe and legal operation of drones within the regulatory frameworks set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Their expertise in navigating the complexities of drone regulations and their dedication to advancing the skills of Remote Pilots (RPs) are critical components of the program’s success.

Hover UAV offers targeted support through:

  • Regulatory guidance and updates to keep RPs informed.
  • Facilitating approval processes through the regulator.
  • Practical training sessions to enhance the operational skills of drone pilots.
  • Support for flight tests, ensuring CRPs meet the necessary competency standards.

This targeted approach ensures that the drone inspection program adheres to the highest standards of safety and legality and benefits from the latest advancements in drone technology and operational best practices.

Building a Secure Energy Future – Monitoring Energy Infrastructure

The collaboration between Endeavour Energy and Hover UAV is a testament to the power of integrating innovative technology with strategic partnerships and regulatory compliance. Endeavour Energy’s drone inspection program is not just about maintaining infrastructure; it’s about reimagining how energy infrastructure resilience is achieved in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

This case study highlights the importance of adaptive strategies and the role of technology in safeguarding critical infrastructure. As Endeavour Energy continues to lead by example, its efforts underscore the potential for digital technologies to revolutionise infrastructure management, setting new standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability in the energy sector.

Drone Operations in New Zealand

Enabling Remote Drone Operations in NZ: Live Demos and Real-World Applications

Enabling Remote Drone Operations in NZ: Live Demos and Real-World Applications

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Explore the reality of remote drone operations in New Zealand through this collaborative webinar with Ferntech, Orion, and Hover UAV. This session will demonstrate how remote drone operations, once imagined as futuristic, are now fully integrated into industry workflows while operating within the bounds of New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations.

Webinar Highlight: Live Drone Flight in Action
A unique aspect of this webinar will be a live-streamed flight demonstration directly from Orion’s substation. See how autonomous drone operations are actively supporting infrastructure management, providing real-time insights and tangible value under current regulations.

Peter Allen from Orion will present a compelling case study on their automated drone system, already in operation at one of their substations. As a provider of critical infrastructure, Orion builds and maintains a safe, reliable, and resilient electricity network across central Waitaha Canterbury, and drone operations are playing an essential role in their mission.

Ferntech, a key supplier of drone solutions in New Zealand, supports industries and operators by ensuring access to the right technology and expertise needed for compliant operations. Their involvement in the webinar will highlight how drone systems are empowering businesses to enhance efficiency and safety across sectors.

Hover UAV will provide expert guidance on navigating the regulatory landscape, sharing practical strategies for securing operational approvals for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and autonomous operations. Learn how to align your operations with compliance requirements and unlock the potential of drone technology in real-world scenarios.

Webinar Highlights:

  • Regulatory insights from Hover UAV on gaining CAA approvals
  • Orion’s real-world case Study Featuring automated drone Operations
  • Remote live drone flight streamed directly from Orion’s substation
  • Collaborative insights on practical drone applications from Ferntech

 

This webinar is essential for drone operators, industry professionals, and infrastructure managers looking to leverage advanced drone technology within a compliant framework. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how cutting-edge operations are already shaping the future of business and industry in New Zealand.

Viewshed Analysis

Viewshed Analysis and BVLOS Operations

Viewshed Analysis and BVLOS Operations – Understanding Viewshed Analysis and Its Role in BVLOS Operations

As the use of drones continues to grow, so do the operational capabilities that they bring to industries like surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and emergency response. One of the most significant advancements in drone operations is Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights, which allow drones to fly beyond the operator’s Visual Line of Sight (VLOS). BVLOS opens up incredible opportunities for long-range missions but also introduces unique challenges. Among the key tools for overcoming these challenges is the Viewshed analysis—a method that plays a crucial role in planning safe and efficient BVLOS operations.

What is a Viewshed Analysis?

Viewshed analysis is a powerful tool used to determine the visibility of certain areas from specific vantage points. Traditionally used in geographic information systems (GIS) for tasks like urban planning or communication tower placement, Viewshed analysis has found its place in drone operations, particularly for BVLOS flights.

The goal of a Viewshed analysis is to map out which parts of the terrain or landscape are visible from a particular point, considering factors like the curvature of the Earth, elevation, buildings, and natural obstacles like trees and hills. In essence, it helps to identify “visible” and “non-visible” areas within a specified distance or region, offering operators insight into where visual line-of-sight might be obstructed.

Why Viewshed Analysis is Important for BVLOS

When drones fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), they move outside the pilot’s direct line of sight. This means that operators need advanced tools to ensure the flight is both safe and compliant with regulatory standards. Viewshed analysis helps with key aspects of BVLOS operations:

1. Obstacle Avoidance

One of the primary concerns in BVLOS flights is obstacle avoidance. Without direct visual contact, the risk of colliding with natural or man-made obstacles increases significantly. A Viewshed analysis allows you to map out these obstacles before a flight, ensuring that the drone can avoid buildings, towers, trees, or even terrain features like hills and valleys that could interfere with the mission.

By understanding what parts of the flight path are visible and which areas are obscured by obstacles, operators can make informed decisions and adjust routes to ensure safe and smooth BVLOS operations.

2. Flight Path Optimisation

Viewshed analysis helps drone operators plan the most efficient flight paths. By analysing the terrain and potential obstacles, operators can determine the most optimal route for a drone to take during a BVLOS mission. This is especially useful for long-range missions, such as pipeline inspections, where choosing the wrong path could lead to delays, wasted battery life, or even mission failure.

With a proper Viewshed analysis, operators can design flight paths that maximise visibility and minimise risk, ensuring that the drone reaches its destination without encountering obstacles or losing communication links.

3. Signal Propagation and Communication

BVLOS flights rely on uninterrupted communication between the drone and the ground control station (GCS) unless utilising satellite communication links. However, terrain features like mountains, large buildings, or dense forests can block or weaken signals, creating communication dead zones. A Viewshed analysis helps identify areas where signal propagation might be disrupted, allowing operators to plan accordingly.

For instance, if a particular area of the flight path has poor visibility due to terrain, the operator can either avoid it altogether or ensure that alternative communication methods, such as satellite links or repeaters, are available to maintain a strong connection with the drone.

For BVLOS operations, communication with other aircraft is crucial, especially when flying in shared airspace. Viewshed analysis also plays a role in determining the effective range of aeronautical VHF radio communications. These radios are essential for ensuring that drones operators can communicate with manned aircraft and air traffic control during BVLOS missions. Signal strength can be affected by terrain features, and a Viewshed analysis helps predict where VHF radio signals may be blocked or weakened. This allows operators to maintain clear communication with manned aircraft and comply with airspace regulations.

By predicting where communication might weaken due to terrain, operators can either avoid those areas or adjust their communication methods. For instance, in areas with poor VHF radio range, satellite communication links or radio relays may be necessary to maintain contact with both the drone and manned aircraft in the vicinity.

Viewshed Analysis BVLOS

4. Meeting Regulatory Requirements

Regulatory bodies such as Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) require extensive risk assessments for BVLOS operations. These assessments often demand a comprehensive understanding of the operating environment, which includes identifying potential hazards along the flight path.

A Viewshed analysis plays a vital role in these risk assessments by providing clear, data-driven insights into the operational landscape. By incorporating a Viewshed analysis into your BVLOS planning, you can demonstrate to regulators that your mission has been carefully evaluated, with all potential obstacles and risks considered.

How Hover UAV Can Help with Viewshed Analysis

At Hover UAV, we understand the complexities that come with BVLOS operations. Our team specialises in helping organisations plan, manage, and execute BVLOS missions safely and efficiently. Whether you are a small business or a large enterprise, we offer tailored solutions to meet all your Viewshed analysis needs.

Expertise You Can Trust

With our extensive experience in drone operations, we know that BVLOS flights demand more than just cutting-edge technology—they require expert planning. Our team uses advanced GIS tools and methodologies to perform detailed Viewshed analyses that help you understand your operational environment down to the last detail.

By partnering with Hover UAV, you gain access to:

  • Precise Terrain Mapping: Our Viewshed analyses offer highly accurate terrain models that take into account natural and man-made obstacles, ensuring no surprises during your flight.
  • Customized Flight Planning: We provide personalized flight path recommendations based on your specific BVLOS mission, optimizing for safety, visibility, and efficiency.
  • Regulatory Compliance: We help you navigate the regulatory landscape, ensuring that your BVLOS operations meet all requirements. Our Viewshed analysis services can be a critical part of your risk assessment process, making it easier to secure approvals from CASA or other aviation authorities.

Streamlining Your BVLOS Operations

We know that BVLOS missions can be daunting, but they can unlock a world of possibilities with the right planning. At Hover UAV, our goal is to make BVLOS operations accessible to everyone. Whether you’re conducting long-range inspections, surveying large areas, or monitoring infrastructure, we can provide the Viewshed analysis and flight planning support you need to succeed.

Partner With Us

Hover UAV is committed to helping you take your drone operations to the next level. With our expert Viewshed analysis services, you can ensure that your BVLOS regulatory submissions are safe, efficient, and compliant.

Contact Us Today

Ready to start your next BVLOS operations? Reach out to Hover UAV today to discuss how we can assist with your BVLOS, Viewshed analysis and all other aspects of your BVLOS processes, planning and procedures. Our team is here to ensure your mission’s success from start to finish.

SORA-Mate

SORA-Mate Automating Drone Risk Assessments

Hover UAV and ANRA Technologies Launch SORA-Mate for Automating Drone Risk Assessments for Safer, Compliant Missions

Streamlined Compliance and Enhanced Safety for Drone Operators in Australia and New Zealand

SORA-Mate, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia – September 24, 2024  – ANRA Technologies, a global leader in airspace management solutions, and Hover UAV, a leading drone regulatory consultancy, today announced the launch of SORA-Mate, an innovative automated risk assessment tool for drone operators in Australia, New Zealand, and the wider APAC region.

As drones become a vital part of daily operations, they transform industries such as agriculture, public safety, and critical infrastructure. Farmers now use drones to monitor crops, while police and fire services deploy them to enhance public safety. In the utility sector, drones help restore essential infrastructure more efficiently after disasters. However, as organisations seek to expand drone usage, they often face regulatory hurdles. Complex and inconsistent application processes frequently lead to lengthy approval wait times from aviation authorities, slowing the adoption of advanced drone operations.

To address these challenges, SORA-Mate was developed to automate the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) process. By streamlining submissions and ensuring compliance, SORA-Mate simplifies the regulatory journey for both operators and regulators. This automation improves application accuracy, reduces delays, and makes it easier for operators to conduct Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights. The platform walks users through risk analysis, mitigation strategies, and report generation by aligning with Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS) guidelines. SORA-Mate enables operators to scale efficiently and conduct safe and compliant flights in controlled airspaces.

“SORA-Mate represents a significant leap forward in drone operation safety and efficiency,” said Amit Ganjoo, Founder and CEO of ANRA Technologies. “By automating complex risk assessments, we’re enabling operators to focus on their missions while ensuring the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance.”

SORA-Mate

Key Features and Benefits of SORA-Mate include:

  • Simplified Risk Assessments: SORA-Mate guides users through the SORA process with an intuitive platform that automatically analyzes risks and recommends effective mitigations.
  • Time-Saving Automation: Generate comprehensive, regulation-ready reports in minutes, eliminating guesswork and reducing stress.
  • Compliance Assurance: SORA-Mate ensures complete compliance with JARUS standards, protecting operations from regulatory issues and enhancing safety.
  • Expert Support: With premium options, users can access the expertise of Hover UAV’s specialists, ensuring applications meet the highest standards and increasing the likelihood of regulatory approval.
  • Optional Aviation Authority Approval: Generate thorough and accurate submissions to aviation authorities, reducing delays and rejections.

“Designed specifically for the unique requirements of Australia and New Zealand, SORA-Mate makes it easy to assess risks, recommend mitigations, and generate detailed, compliant reports in minutes,” said Jackie Dujmovic, Founder and CEO of Hover UAV. “It’s all about flying smarter and safer. The days of tedious paperwork and manual calculations are over.”

SORA-Mate aims to standardize and streamline the risk assessment process for both operators and aviation authorities, potentially accelerating approvals to include Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.

The platform offers both basic and premium options, catering to a range of operator needs and expertise levels. In addition to the application features, Hover UAV will provide SORA consultancy for operators that require more direct support. With SORA-Mate, operators can focus on flying, knowing that their compliance needs are met.

“SORA-Mate is designed with the operator in mind,” Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV, continued. “Our platform is not just about compliance; it’s about empowering operators to fly confidently, knowing that their missions are safe and meet all regulatory requirements.”

SORA-Mate will debut in Australia and New Zealand, with other countries planned shortly thereafter, with a rollout focused on markets whose regulatory bodies require SORA submissions to obtain permissions for more complex drone operations.

To showcase the full potential of SORA-Mate, Hover UAV and ANRA Technologies are hosting an exclusive webinar on September 26. Participants will have the opportunity to see live demonstrations, ask questions, and discover how SORA-Mate can transform their drone operations. Interested participants can register at:

To register for the webinar, Click Here

For more information or to subscribe to SORA-Mate, visit: https://www.soramate.co

SORA-Mate

About Hover UAV 

Hover UAV is a leading emerging aviation consultancy specializing in drone regulatory approvals and solutions. The team is committed to enhancing safety and compliance in the rapidly evolving industry. In partnership with ANRA Technologies, Hover UAV developed SORA-Mate as part of the Australian Government’s Emerging Aviation Technology Program, with a mission to standardize and automate drone risk assessments.

About ANRA Technologies 

ANRA Technologies is an international provider of end-to-end drone operations and traffic management solutions for unmanned aircraft operators and airspace managers. ANRA’s software platforms provide users with mission planning, flight execution, data analytics, and regulatory compliance tools.

SORA-Mate

SORA-Mate

Streamlining the SORA and BVLOS Approval Process: SORA-Mate

 

Background

SORA-Mate was developed with support from the Emerging Aviation Technology Partnerships Program (EATP). The Australian Government implemented the EATP through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication to support the growth and development of emerging aviation technologies. The EATP aims to enhance the competitiveness, efficiency, and reliability of the Australian aviation industry. Recognising the complexities and challenges associated with Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) approvals, the EATP supported leading regulatory consultant Hover UAV in partnership with ANRA Technologies, a top provider of unmanned traffic management, to address the critical need for streamlined and standardised risk assessment processes under the JARUS-SORA framework.

The primary goal of SORA-Mate was to create intelligent software for standardised, equitable, and repeatable risk assessments for drone operators and regulatory authorities in support of BVLOS applications. SORA-Mate was designed to facilitate an increasingly automated SORA process that doesn’t compromise safety, streamlining the workflow for both the drone operator and the regulatory authority. Drone operators will get approvals faster, regulators will receive standardised applications, and all stakeholders will have a common framework to assess risk and improve aviation safety. 

JARUS-SORA and SORA-Mate

SORA-Mate is based on the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework, developed by the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems (JARUS). JARUS is an international group that develops technical, safety, and operational guidelines for the certification and regulation of unmanned systems. The SORA framework provides a comprehensive methodology for assessing and mitigating risks associated with unmanned aircraft operations.

SORA-Mate builds on these principles, offering a user-friendly application that simplifies the risk assessment process. It enables operators to input various parameters of their operations and receive a structured risk assessment, helping them understand potential hazards and the necessary mitigations.

SORA-Mate is equipped with a comprehensive array of data sources integrated into its backend, making it a powerful tool for conducting thorough and standardised risk assessments. This includes detailed information on aerodromes, airspace designations, topography, and population density. By leveraging these data sets, SORA-MATE allows operators to quickly evaluate the specific characteristics of an operational area, accurately identifying both ground and air risks. 

 

SORA-Mate Benefits

SORA-Mate enables operators to easily add additional capabilities, such as BVLOS, to their operations. Due to the streamlined SORA creation process built into SORA-Mate, operators can also save significant amounts of money and staff time.

One of the significant advantages of SORA-Mate is the standardised risk assessments that are outputted. These assessments make it easier for aviation regulators like CASA to review and approve applications. This standardisation can lead to shorter wait times for approvals, increasing operational efficiency for operators. Furthermore, by adhering to a consistent framework, SORA-MATE enhances overall aviation safety, benefiting the entire industry.

SORAMATE

Thanks

We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with industry stakeholders, including the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communication, over the past two years. Their support and guidance have been invaluable in the development of SORA-Mate. As we approach the launch, we are excited to share this tool with the industry and demonstrate its potential to revolutionise drone operations.

Webinar

We will be showcasing SORA-Mate and its capabilities in an upcoming launch webinar. This event will provide an in-depth look at how the tool works, its benefits, and how it can be integrated into existing operations. We invite all interested parties to join us and learn more about how SORA-MATE can transform their approach to drone risk assessment and compliance. Registration can be found here.

More information on SORA-Mate can be found at www.soramate.co

Liability and Insurance in RPAS Operations

Liability and Insurance in Drone Operations

Liability and Insurance in Drone Operations

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Chief Remote Pilot Professional Development Series – Session 2: Liability & Insurance in Drone Operations

As drone and remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) operations expand across Australia, managing risk and understanding insurance needs become paramount. With an increasing number of organizations conducting flights over or near people and beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), the complexity of these operations grows. Session 2 of the Hover UAV Chief Remote Pilot Professional Development Series addresses the critical aspects of liabilities specific to drone operations and insurance considerations.

Key Speakers

Olga Kubyk
Olga Kubyk is a Senior Associate and an experienced aviation, marine, and transport lawyer in Norton White’s aviation litigation and dispute resolution team. Olga’s work includes commercial, consumer, regulatory, and work health and safety prosecutions. She also handles coronial inquests, government procurement, insurance, employment, damage to aircraft, and passenger and cargo claims. Her experience spans various Australian state, territory, and federal courts and tribunals and ad hoc institutional arbitration tribunals (ACICA/ICC).

James Ainslie
James is an insurance industry professional with 15 years of experience. He has worked in both broking and insurer environments, supporting commercial SME and enterprise clients in various industries. James began working with the drone industry in early 2022, helping to bring Precision Autonomy‘s drone-specific insurance solutions to both broking and consumer clients.

Jackie Dujmovic – Moderator
Jackie Dujmovic, CEO of Hover UAV, moderates the session. Her passion for advancing the emerging aviation sector safely drives her extensive global experience in RPAS and Emerging Aviation. She has led multiple groundbreaking projects and is involved in numerous government working groups. Jackie also serves on the Board of Safeskies Australia. Her expertise and leadership are instrumental in shaping the future of uncrewed systems and aviation safety.

Session Objectives

Insurance Observations
Explore both general and liability-specific observations from a drone-specific insurance provider to gain a deeper understanding of real-life insurance considerations.

Liability Considerations
Discuss the liabilities specific to the role of Chief Remote Pilots, including potential legal exposures and the impact of regulatory changes.

Protective Measures
Identify strategies and practices that Chief Remote Pilots can implement to safeguard themselves and their organizations from financial and legal repercussions.

Interactive Components

Case Study Reviews
Analyze real-world scenarios to understand lessons learned from liability issues faced by drone operators.

Q&A Session
Engage with our experts to clarify doubts or address specific operational challenges.

Target Audience

This session is designed for Chief Remote Pilots and senior RPAS operators involved in planning, executing, or managing drone operations. Understanding the associated legal and insurance implications is crucial for these roles.

Outcome

Participants will leave the session equipped with the knowledge to assess and manage risks effectively. They will gain real-world observations to support insurance program outcomes, implement best practices in legal compliance and liability management, and protect themselves and their organizations in the rapidly evolving RPAS landscape.

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One of the Foremost Experts in Drone Operations

At Hover UAV we assist drone programs from conception to full implementation. We are a passionate team of experts, with diverse skill sets and backgrounds gained in sectors such as maritime, crewed aviation, defense, corporate and engineering sectors.

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