Aker Solutions reports that it has been granted full certification for unlimited beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations to support autonomous inspections of offshore platforms, onshore yards, process plants and industrial sites.
The approval, issued by European and national civil aviation authorities, authorises Aker Solutions to operate drones alongside manned helicopters and aircraft without interfering with helideck operations, airports or controlled airspace.
Operations will be piloted remotely from onshore control rooms located hundreds of kilometres away.
The certification is system-agnostic, enabling Aker Solutions to integrate different platforms and technologies according to client requirements.
“Meeting these requirements opens new possibilities and will support the transition to low- and unmanned operations in some of the world’s most complex maritime environments. We aim to lead in delivering digital and automated maintenance and inspection services that boost customer productivity,” said Aker’s Head of Drones and Robotics, Joachim Hovland.
Earlier this year, Aker Solutions completed its first offshore BVLOS drone operation piloted from Stavanger.
