Edmonton, AB (August 8, 2024) – GeoVerra, a Canadian leader in geomatics and geospatial solutions, has taken a significant step forward in the realm of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) by partnering with AIRmarket, for their Alberta RPAS Traffic Management Trials. These exciting trials aim to establish air traffic control infrastructure and technologies to unlock Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) RPAS flight opportunities, an exciting evolution of aerial data collection in Canada.
How GeoVerra Got Involved
The journey began when AIRmarket contacted GeoVerra, inviting them to participate in their groundbreaking initiative to enhance Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) functionality for RPAS. GeoVerra’s National Manager, Geospatial and Director of RPAS Operations, Leon Hanlan says, “This invitation came at a crucial time, as GeoVerra was actively exploring BVLOS capabilities to further our work in the field.” Embracing this opportunity, GeoVerra joined forces with AIRmarket, marking the start of a collaborative effort that promises to revolutionize RPAS operations in Canada.
The Significance of the Partnership
For GeoVerra, this partnership is more than just a technological advancement; it represents a chance to actively shape the future of RPAS work in Canada. By participating in this historic endeavor, GeoVerra is contributing valuable insights and expertise, ensuring that they not only have a seat at the table but also boots on the ground to influence and improve the industry’s standards and practices.
Impact on Business and Industries Across Canada
The impact of this partnership and initiative extends far beyond GeoVerra. The use of RPAS technology offers significant environmental benefits, as these units provide a cleaner alternative to traditional manned aircraft for data collection. Additionally, industries across Canada stand to gain from increased efficiency and cost savings through the adoption of RPAS technology. This shift towards more sustainable and efficient practices is set to redefine how aerial data is collected and utilized.
Key Team Members Involved
GeoVerra team members, Andrew Hill, Tyler Arthurs and Leon Hanlan provided their expertise and dedication to technology innovation to this initiative, alongside iArt Alliance, who are leaders for being leaders in creating efficiencies and making positive changes across the transportation, energy, and resources sectors. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in this transformative program.
Reflecting on the future of RPAS in Canada, Hanlan expressed his excitement: “The future of RPAS in Canada is very exciting as we are living during a time where rapidly evolving technology is allowing a dramatic shift in the way industry can collect aerial data. We are at the cusp of contributing to, and seeing historical changes to the Canadian Aviation regulations.”
Looking Ahead – or should we say, flying…
GeoVerra is committed to leading by example, with contributing pilots Andrew Hill and Tyler Arthurs being among the best-trained and most experienced in the industry. This initiative is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the RPAS community, where even competitors come together to achieve common goals. GeoVerra extends its gratitude to the entire AIRmarket team for their extraordinary efforts in advancing this initiative, and they are proud to be part of this historic journey.
