Tag: rpas

Drones Pre & Post Cyclone

Drones Pre & Post Cyclone

Drones Pre & Post Cyclone – The Role of Drones in Environmental Monitoring and Post-Cyclone Damage Assessment

With Tropical Cyclone Alfred set to impact southeast Queensland later in the coming days, concerns about extreme weather events and their environmental consequences are at the forefront. Cyclones bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding, all of which can cause significant ecological disruption. In the wake of such disasters, drones have emerged as a powerful tool for both environmental monitoring and damage assessment, offering real-time insights that aid disaster response and recovery efforts. Drones Pre & Post Cyclone

Drones in Environmental Monitoring Pre- and Post-Cyclone

Environmental monitoring is crucial before and after a cyclone to assess changes in ecosystems, water quality, and land stability. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) provide a cost-effective and efficient way to collect high-resolution data over large and often inaccessible areas.

  • Coastal Erosion and Flooding Assessments
    Drones can track the erosion of beaches, riverbanks, and mangrove forests—vital natural barriers that help protect inland areas from storm surges. In the lead-up to Cyclone Alfred, drones are already being used to survey vulnerable coastlines to establish pre-cyclone baselines. Comparing post-storm imagery will reveal the extent of erosion and identify priority areas for restoration.

  • Monitoring Vegetation and Wildlife
    Cyclones can devastate ecosystems, destroying forests and displacing wildlife. UAVs equipped with multispectral and thermal sensors can assess vegetation loss, habitat destruction, and the health of native species following the storm. Conservation groups use this data to plan reforestation and habitat recovery efforts.

  • Water Contamination and Pollution Tracking
    Heavy rainfall from cyclones often leads to pollution spills, chemical leaks, and algal blooms in waterways. Drones can sample water quality remotely, detecting contaminants and helping authorities prevent long-term environmental damage.

Drones in Post-Cyclone Damage Assessment

After a cyclone like Alfred makes landfall, the priority shifts to assessing damage quickly and safely. Traditional assessment methods can be slow and hazardous, particularly in flooded or debris-laden areas. Drones can dramatically improve this process by providing rapid aerial surveys and detailed 3D mapping of affected regions.

  • Infrastructure and Property Assessments
    UAVs help emergency responders survey damaged buildings, roads, and power lines without putting personnel at risk. They can pinpoint areas requiring urgent repairs, streamlining disaster response efforts.

  • Search and Rescue Operations
    Thermal imaging drones play a crucial role in locating stranded individuals in flooded areas or collapsed structures. After Cyclone Alfred passes, drones will likely be deployed to scan for survivors, particularly in areas cut off by floodwaters.

  • Insurance and Disaster Relief Planning
    Insurers and government agencies rely on drone footage to assess claims and allocate disaster relief resources efficiently. UAVs capture high-resolution imagery that provides irrefutable documentation of damage levels, expediting recovery efforts.

As Cyclone Alfred approaches southeast Queensland, the importance of drones in both environmental monitoring and post-cyclone damage assessment is clear. By tracking environmental changes, assessing disaster impacts, and aiding recovery efforts, drones are proving to be indispensable tools in modern disaster management. As technology continues to advance, UAVs will play an even greater role in building climate resilience and improving disaster preparedness worldwide.

For those in affected regions, staying informed and prioritising safety is essential. Once conditions stabilise, drones will be on the frontline, helping communities rebuild and recover faster than ever before.

Hover UAV would like to extend our thoughts to our colleagues, friends, and the wider community during this unprecedented event. Please stay safe, follow emergency warnings, and prioritise your well-being.

Updated Plain English Guide for Excluded Category Drone Operations

Updated Excluded Category Guide

Updated Plain English Guide for Excluded Category Drone Operations

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has released an updated version of the Micro and Excluded Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Operations – Plain English Guide. This revision, Version 2.2 (December 2024), includes important changes to improve clarity and align with evolving regulations.

What’s New in Version 2.2? Updated Excluded Category Guide

This update brings several amendments to terminology, airspace rules, and operational procedures. Key changes include:

Standardised Measurements

  • Removed all references to feet and nautical miles.
  • The guide now exclusively uses metric units.

Clarified Airspace Rules

  • Defined altitude as the vertical distance above mean sea level (AMSL).
  • Defined height as the vertical distance above ground level (AGL).
  • Introduced a no-fly zone around helicopter landing sites (HLS): 1.4 km radius and 120 m height.
  • Revised the no-fly zone definition for non-controlled aerodromes to match controlled aerodrome requirements.

Operational Guidance Updates

  • Excluded Category Operations: Removed the reference that operator accreditation holders need recreational accreditation.
  • Pre-flight Requirements: Removed a section on notification requirements.
  • Drone Safety Apps: Expanded terminology to include restricted areas and military operating areas.
  • Controlled Aerodromes: Micro RPA may now fly within 5.5 km of a controlled aerodrome’s measurement point, up to 45 m, with specific restrictions.
  • Restricted Airspace: Changed terminology from Prohibited Restricted Danger (PRD) to Special Use Airspace (SUA).
  • Emergency Procedures: Updated regulatory references from Part 99 to Part 92.

Enhanced Definitions and Graphics

  • Updated guidance on populous areas for better clarity.
  • Allowed subject tracking for autonomous RPA operations.
  • Adjusted graphics for aerodrome approach and departure paths.
  • Revised incident and accident reporting requirements. Reporting for micro and excluded RPA operators is now voluntary through the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).

Why This Matters

These changes improve the clarity and usability of the guide for drone operators. The shift to metric units ensures consistency with aviation standards. The updated airspace definitions and operational rules enhance safety and compliance, making it easier for drone pilots to understand their responsibilities.

Where to Access the Updated Guide: Updated Excluded Category Guide

Updated Plain English Guide for Excluded Category Drone Operations

You can download the latest version of the CASA Plain English Guide for Micro and Excluded RPA Operations here.

Staying informed on regulatory updates ensures safe and compliant drone operations. Be sure to review the latest changes before your next flight!

Fly Safe:- The Hover UAV Team

UAVNZ Safety Award Winner: Hover UAV

Safety Award Winner NZ

Hover UAV Safety Award Winner

Safety Award Winner NZ: Hover UAV has been recognised for excellence in drone safety, winning the coveted Safety Award from UAVNZ. This achievement reinforces the company’s position as a leader in safe and compliant drone operations.

UAVNZ Safety Award: A Recognition of Excellence

UAVNZ is New Zealand’s premier industry body for uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). The organisation promotes professionalism, compliance, and innovation in the drone sector. The Safety Award is given to a company that demonstrates outstanding commitment to safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

Hover UAV’s recognition highlights its unwavering dedication to creating and implementing best-practice safety solutions. The company supports businesses, government agencies, and drone operators in meeting strict regulatory standards while maximising operational efficiency.

Leading the Industry in Drone Safety

Hover UAV has built a reputation for delivering expert safety guidance in the drone industry. Their work spans complex Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, regulatory approvals, and risk assessments. With a focus on safety, Hover UAV helps businesses integrate drones into their operations without compromising security or compliance.

This award reaffirms Hover UAV’s role in advancing industry standards. The company continuously works alongside regulators, aviation authorities, and technology developers to create safer airspace for all UAV users.

Why Safety Matters in Drone Operations: Safety Award Winner NZ

Safety is a top priority in the drone industry. With increasing UAV applications in sectors like agriculture, logistics, and emergency response, ensuring secure operations is crucial. Poor risk management can lead to accidents, operational disruptions, and legal consequences.

Hover UAV champions safety by:

  • Conducting comprehensive risk assessments
  • Developing safety management systems
  • Providing compliance training and workshops
  • Supporting clients through regulatory approval processes

Their expertise allows businesses to confidently operate drones while meeting aviation safety requirements.

A Commitment to Innovation and Compliance

Hover UAV is at the forefront of drone safety innovation. They actively contribute to policy discussions and regulatory frameworks to enhance industry-wide safety measures. Through partnerships with government agencies and private enterprises, Hover UAV ensures that emerging technologies align with aviation best practices.

The company’s approach combines technology and regulation to enable safe UAV operations. By continuously refining their safety protocols, they help operators reduce risks and enhance operational success.

Hover UAV’s Impact on the New Zealand Drone Sector

Safety Award Winner NZ: Winning the UAVNZ Safety Award solidifies Hover UAV’s influence in the New Zealand drone industry. Their expertise benefits businesses looking to scale UAV operations while maintaining compliance with New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations.

With their experience in international drone regulations, Hover UAV offers valuable insights to operators navigating New Zealand’s aviation landscape. Their knowledge helps businesses gain approvals for complex UAV missions, including BVLOS operations and automated drone deployments.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Safe UAV Operations

Hover UAV’s dedication to safety doesn’t stop with this award. The company remains committed to shaping the future of drone operations through ongoing research, development, and advocacy.

They continue to work with industry leaders to implement safety-first strategies that support UAV expansion in various industries. As drone technology evolves, Hover UAV ensures that safety remains at the core of every innovation.

Hover UAV’s UAVNZ Safety Award win is a testament to its leadership in drone safety. Their commitment to compliance, risk management, and innovation sets them apart as a trusted partner in the UAV sector.

For businesses looking to enhance drone operations while prioritizing safety, Hover UAV offers expert guidance and industry-leading solutions. This award reinforces this reputation as a pioneer in safe UAV integration.

To learn more about Hover UAV’s services and expertise, visit Hover UAV or follow them on LinkedIn.

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.

📄 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:
Create new jobs in drone operations, manufacturing, and air traffic management.
Attract investments and boost local industries.
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:
Public concerns about noise pollution and airspace congestion.
Regulatory complexities in integrating drones into controlled airspace.
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.

📄 For full insights, check out the Airservices Australia report:
📌 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.

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.

Advisory Circular AC102-1 Unmanned Aircraft – Operator Certification

Advisory Circular AC102-1 Unmanned Aircraft – Operator Certification, New Zealand CAA

The New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has recently released an updated version of the Part 102 Advisory Circular (AC) – AC102-1: Unmanned Aircraft – Operator Certification. This marks the first revision since its initial issue in 2015, bringing the guidance up to date with how the Part 102 rule is currently applied by the CAA and utilised by operators. At Hover UAV, we are committed to supporting operators across New Zealand in navigating Part 102 applications with the CAA.

What is AC102-1?

This Advisory Circular (AC) describes an acceptable means of compliance to meet the requirements for certification of unmanned aircraft operators under Civil Aviation Rule Part 102. It:

  • Outlines the requirement to assess risks in Part 102 operations, including developing procedures to manage those risks and achieve safe outcomes.
  • Advises on the development of risk management plans as part of an operator’s exposition, to demonstrate to the CAA that risks to aviation safety are being adequately managed.
  • Describes widely used risk management methodologies and other tools to help operators meet the intent of this rule.

What’s Changed?

The AC has been completely rewritten to ensure it is providing relevant guidance and information for RPA operators in New Zealand. 

Key updates include:

  • Streamlined Content: Removal of the FAQ section, with crucial information rewritten to clarify when Part 102 certification is required.
  • Updated Provisions: Removal of out-of-date transition provisions.
  • Performance-Based Rule Guidance: Enhanced advice on working within a performance-based framework.
  • Submission and Assessment Process: Clearer information on the application and review processes.
  • Risk Management: Comprehensive guidance on managing risks in RPAS operations, including how to develop effective risk management plans.
  • Appendices:
    • Appendix I: Guide to ISO: 31000 – Risk Management. This international standard outlines a widely used methodology for creating and managing risk management plans.
    • Appendix II: Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA). Developed by JARUS (Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems), SORA provides technical, safety, and operational requirements for the safe execution of specific RPAS operations, making it especially valuable for complex and higher-risk operations.
    • Appendix III: Examples of exposition documents tailored to various scenarios, illustrate how an exposition might look based on the privileges and risk level of an operation.


SORA

The inclusion of SORA in the updated AC highlights its value as a key tool for supporting operators in securing Part 102 certification. This internationally recognised risk assessment methodology allows operators to:

  • Conduct detailed risk assessments focused on ground and air risks.
  • Define operational safety objectives.
  • Develop mitigations tailored to the environment and operation’s complexity.

SORA enables operators to balance safety with innovation, facilitating the development of more advanced UAV applications. By following SORA guidelines, operators can demonstrate regulatory compliance while fostering operational excellence.

SORA-Mate

Navigating the regulatory requirements of SORA can be challenging, particularly for operators new to the methodology. That’s where SORA-Mate comes in. This tool simplifies the SORA process by offering:

  • Step-by-Step Guidance: Clear instructions for completing SORA assessments.
  • Customisable Templates: Pre-built templates aligned with CAA-recognised SORA methodology.
  • Built-in Data Integration: Automated processes that pull required data from recognised data sources to minimise errors and save time.

SORA-Mate

SORA-Mate is especially valuable for operators new to SORA, providing an intuitive interface and robust support to streamline compliance and operational excellence.

At Hover UAV, we’re here to support you through these changes. Whether you need assistance with risk assessments, compliance documentation, or developing a SORA, our team is ready to help. Click here to get in touch with one of our team today.

For more information about AC102-1, Revision 1, visit the CAA website.

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

Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to our mailing list to review the latest
industry news and Hover UAV updates.

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.

© 2024 Hover UAV. All Rights Reserved.