The UK Civil Aviation Authority has approved the use of drones for flying beyond operators’ visual line of sight over critical national infrastructure. This represents a significant development in the monitoring and protection of essential systems throughout Britain. Independent advisory firm Drone Major has been granted ‘Operational Authority’ to carry out these flights, marking the first instance where drones can patrol extensive lengths of critical infrastructure without continuous human oversight.
Robert Garbett, Founder and Chief Executive of Drone Major Group, highlighted the milestone, stating that it opens avenues to enhance the safety and efficiency of the UK’s infrastructure, particularly in densely populated areas. Initially, railway networks will be the focus, addressing long-standing issues such as trespassing and security threats. The ability to detect potential problems before they escalate is a welcomed advancement.
Network Rail is actively supporting this initiative, funding trials along a busy 12-kilometer segment between Wolverhampton and Sandwell & Dudley Station. Successful implementation could lead to significant cost savings and improved train operations. Preliminary tests near Wolverhampton and along the scenic Severn Valley Railway have shown promising results, indicating that drones can identify threats and alert authorities quicker than ground-based systems.
Central to this operation is a technology known as ‘Digital Tethering,’ which establishes invisible flight corridors for the drones, maintaining their position even in GPS-deprived areas like tunnels. This approval follows extensive development and testing to ensure safe drone operations in shared airspace. Moving forward, Drone Major plans to collaborate with other infrastructure operators interested in similar monitoring solutions.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority is committed to integrating drone operations into everyday practices, aiming to modernize airspace and foster the growth of technological advancements in aviation. The introduction of these drones signals a potential transformation in how critical infrastructure is managed, paving the way for a more interconnected and secure future.