Unifly’s Next-gen UTM system upgrades the Antwerp-Bruges Port area together with SkeyDrone

Unifly, a company within the Terra Drone Corporation group and a leading provider of Unmanned Aerial System Traffic Management systems, has announced a significant upgrade to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ (PoAB) UTM, DronePortal. Developed by Unifly, DronePortal is a cutting-edge UTM application aimed at enhancing the efficiency of drone operations within the complex airspace of the Port of Antwerp and supporting the expanded use of drone technology. Notably, the upgraded services now extend to include the Port of Bruges, representing a crucial step in advancing the PoAB airspace towards U-space readiness.

Operational in the Antwerp Port area since mid-March 2021 and having processed over 5,000 flight authorisations, the PoAB DronePortal upgrade plays a pivotal role in the evolving U-space landscape. The latest improvements include optimised automated approvals, enhanced integration support with drone operations, and User Interface (UI)/User Experience (UX) enhancements, all based on the most recent Unifly product version.

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is poised to become the first official U-space airspace in Europe, marking a significant milestone in uncrewed aerial operations. Hosting the highest volume of drone flights in Belgium, the port has become a hub for drone activities. Erwin Verstraelen, chief digital information & innovation officer at Port of Antwerp-Bruges, emphasises that “Embracing innovation is at the heart of our strategy, and this partnership with SkeyDrone and Unifly reaffirms our commitment to fostering a smart, connected, and future-ready port. Together, we’re shaping a new frontier in uncrewed aerial operations.”

Hendrik-Jan Van Der Gucht, managing director of SkeyDrone, highlights, “With this upgrade of the DronePortal, SkeyDrone is not only enhancing the user experience for drone operators but is also taking the next step towards U-space readiness, ensuring safe and seamless integration of unmanned aerial vehicles in the European airspace.”

Andres Van Swalm, CEO of Unifly, expresses excitement about the growing number of drone operators gearing up for autonomous flights. He comments, “The recent system upgrade, extending support to the Port of Bruges and advancing PoAB towards U-Space readiness, is a significant milestone. The PoAB stands as a global exemplar of how drones can be seamlessly integrated into non-segregated airspace.”

For more information visit  www.terra-drone.net