The Company Skyports Drone Services has initiated a pilot operation of logistics deliveries using shore-based drones to moving ships in the Great Lakes, specifically in the DeTour, Michigan area. This initiative is a series of BVLOS flights that seek to validate the effectiveness of this technology in real maritime routines.
A highly efficient shore-to-ship drone ecosystem
The test began on May 7 and will end on May 27, with the support of the Michigan Department of Transportation(MDOT), the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME) and the Newlab innovation platform. Together, these institutions promote the integration of unmanned aircraft on logistics routes within the state’s transportation system.
During the tests, Skyports operates the Speedbird DLV-2 drone, which is capable of carrying loads of up to 4 kg and of flying in the windy conditions typical of the area. This equipment uses a winch system that allows deliveries to be lowered directly onto the deck of the ships, where they are received and secured by the crew. At the end of its assignment, the drone returns autonomously to its shore base.
The packages transported include light goods such as drinking water samples, documents, bedding and small parts, items that commonly require fast and safe delivery in the maritime industry.
This is our first marine delivery operation in the U.S. and we will look to replicate the success of Singapore and Michigan in other U.S. ports.
Michigan has created an excellent innovation environment for advanced air mobility, and we will be launching several more flight campaigns in the state in the coming months.
Alex Brown, Skyports Director of Drone Services.
The Interlake Steamship fleet, part of Interlake Maritime Services, is actively involved in this testing phase. In addition, its vessels operate regularly on the Great Lakes, carrying millions of tons of cargo each year.
One of the main objectives of the project is to collect data to build regulatory frameworks to scale up the use of drones in maritime operations. Michigan authorities see this initiative as strengthening their leadership in advanced aerial mobility and logistics sustainability.
By collaborating with Skyports, Interlake Steamship, MDOT and OFME, we demonstrate in real time how unmanned aircraft can transport critical supplies to operating vessels faster, safer and with a smaller carbon footprint.
Connor McCarthy, head of AAM at Newlab Detroit.
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Source and photo: Skyports Drone Services
