The Port of Rotterdam has gained authorisation for the first time to test a long-distance drone for inspections and supervision operations.
The drone is managed from the Command & Control Centre in the Harbour Coordination Centre of the Harbour Master Division.
The port authority intends to construct a port-wide multifunctional drone network operated from a central hub, which would need the employment of remote controlled drones.
READ: Port of Rotterdam launches drone regulations pilot
This allows for a real-time connection between the drone’s live images and the assessment of the Harbour Master Division.
The fly-over network will also be used for incident prevention by the Joint Fire Department.
The use of drones aligns with the strategic ambition of the Port of Rotterdam Authority to make the port more efficient, safer and more sustainable.
The drone innovation programme in the port is being developed into an ‘experimental space in the relevant environment’ for providers of drone services.
In June 2023, the Port of Rotterdam announced that the first drone vertiport of the Netherlands became operational.
One month later, the port authority opened the solar park on Patrizia buildings along Witte Zeeweg 3-21 on the Maasvlakte.
