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First automated BVLOS drone flight at DronePort with perimeter inspection from Steenokkerzeel
DronePort in Sint-Truiden hosted a groundbreaking BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone flight for perimeter inspection, remotely controlled from Steenokkerzeel. This collaborative project, part of the ‘U-space in Practice’ event, signifies a major step in automated drone technology, demonstrating its potential for advanced, hard-to-reach inspections, and highlighting DronePort’s commitment to integrating such technologies into practical applications.
Drone Flight Academy performs night flight trainings at DronePort
Drone Flight Academy recently conducted night flight trainings at DronePort. This step represents a significant advancement in drone pilot training, focusing on skills essential for nighttime operations.
Unique light show with 125 drones above DronePort in Sint-Truiden: a new era of entertainment in the air
On the evening of Saturday, March 9, 125 glowing drones formed a breathtaking light and sound show under the starry sky of DronePort in Sint-Truiden. The drone show was the result of a collaboration between DronePort and Dutch Drone Shows, a company originally from the Netherlands that settled last summer on the business campus in Sint-Truiden to develop a sister company in Belgium.
Lars Van Cleven joins the DronePort team as financial expert
DronePort is excited to announce that Lars Van Cleven is joining it’s team as financial expert. His role is crucial for the financial stability and operational efficiency of DronePort, particularly as the organization seeks to transform into an innovative and sustainable platform for new aviation technologies.
Nele De Greef joins DronePort as a specialist in Safety, Security and Compliance
DronePort is proud to announce that Nele De Greef has joined their team as a Safety, Security & Compliance expert. This pivotal move underscores DronePort’s dedication to implementing superior aviation safety and security standards, thereby paving the way for the integration and advancement of new technologies.
ADLC is benchmarking the application of drones in logistics
In a recent showcase at The Beacon in Antwerp on February 26, 2024, the Antwerp Drone Logistics Consortium (ADLC) highlighted the evolving role of drones in logistics. The event featured a panel discussion with prominent figures from EUROCONTROL, the Port of Antwerp, and ADLC, offering valuable insights into the current trends and future potential of drone technology in the logistics sector.
FlyEurop’s launch at DronePort marks a new era in eco-friendly private flights
The official launch of FlyEurop at DronePort in Sint-Truiden marks a significant milestone in the history of Belgian aviation. This event signifies a landmark achievement for FlyEurop, the first Belgian airline dedicated to eco-friendly private flights, highlighting its role as a pioneer in the ecological transition of the aviation sector.
Opening of Belgian Rally Championship 2024 at DronePort marks a thrilling start to the season
The 26th Rally of Haspengouw, pressing the gas pedal first in the lineup, has once again marked the exciting start of the Belgian Rally Championship (BRC) 2024. This year’s opener, held in Sint-Truiden, sees DronePort serving as the headquarters for the rally, also playing host to the event’s press presentation.
DronePort Cuisine welcomes new Horeca Manager and chef Giel Kreemers
DronePort Cuisine is set to embark on an exciting new chapter. As of March 1st, 2024, Giel Kreemes takes over as Horeca Manager and head chef, bringing with him a rich blend of passion, experience and innovative culinary skills.
DronePort resident Cosmic secures $4.5 million in seed funding
Cosmic Aerospace (Cosmic), a US-European aerospace startup, has raised $4.5 million in seed financing to accelerate the development of the world’s first electric aircraft capable of flying up to 1,000 kilometers (more than 600 miles), representing a step change in range among current electric aircraft offerings.
AiroCollect makes aerial measurements available for everyone and is ready to conquer international markets
AiroCollect, a product from DronePort resident Airobot, has seen an exponential boom in sales in the latest months. This innovative software has revolutionized the way aerial measurements are conducted in various industries, particularly in the measuring of roofs, gardens and ground volumes. It has clearly demonstrated its potential for a global expansion due to its scalability and multi-language availability.
DronePort partners with SkeyDrone to create a safe and future-proof drone airspace
DronePort has set up a strategic partnership with SkeyDrone. This partnership will allow DronePort Sint-Truiden to integrate SkeyDrone’s cutting-edge Unmanned Traffic Management solution, enabling the safe and efficient coordination of all drones operating in the different testing zones. Additionally, DronePort will leverage SkeyDrone’s advanced Traffic Information Service to obtain full situational awareness of all air traffic operating within its airspace.
DronePort resident Cosmic Aerospace selected as one of the top 5 companies in the aerospace track of the Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge
In the realm of deep tech startups, the Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity. Since its inception in 2014, this international startup competition has been a transformative platform for early-stage deep tech ventures across a myriad of industries. Cosmic Aerospace’s recent achievement of being selected as one of the top 70 finalists from over 4,500 applicants, and notably one of the five frontrunners in the aerospace track, is a testament to the competition’s caliber and Cosmic Aerospace’s groundbreaking potential.
EASA unveils groundbreaking digital platform for drones and air taxis information
EASA has introduced a digital platform for drones and air taxis to enhance transparency and address safety and sustainability concerns. The Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) Hub facilitates collaboration among stakeholders in the European Commission’s Drone Strategy 2.0. This initiative aims to reassure the public about the integration of these services in Europe.
100 participants for the DronePort Connect session on agricultural drone applications
On November 13, 2023, DronePort came alive with the buzz of innovation and collaboration as it hosted the DronePort Connect session, a day dedicated to exploring the use of drones in the agro-food sector. Organized in partnership with EUKA / Flanders Make, PC Fruit, ILVO, VITO, and Boerenbond, the event marked a significant gathering of professionals from the broad spectrum of the agrofood industry and developers or providers of drone applications.
DronePort granted new permit to double flight capacity to 30,000 movements
Limburg Regional Airport at DronePort in Sint-Truiden has been granted a new permit, allowing it to handle up to 30,000 flights annually. Flemish Minister for the Environment, Zuhal Demir (N-VA), aims to secure the airport’s future with this permit. “This environmental permit is designed to enable DronePort to realize its growth plans within the confines of its environment,” she states.
Passenger drone transports for the first time medical cargo through European airspace at DronePort
On July 25, 2023, a large two-seat passenger drone transported heavy medical cargo through European airspace for the first time, adjacent to populated area. The drone flight, a completely unmanned and automated mission, transported ten blood bags over 1-kilometer distance through DronePort’s proving airspace in Sint-Truiden, Belgium. The operation and test flights were coordinated by Belgian company Helicus, which is known for developing drone applications and technologies for aerial medical transport.
Aviation expert Ward Decaluwe new CEO at DronePort
The Board of Directors of DronePort nv has appointed a new CEO. Ward Decaluwe (56) is an aviation expert with a long career within Brussels Airport Company, Sabena and Brussels Airlines. He takes over the helm at DronePort, which aims to further grow into a benchmark in the European drone and aviation innovation industry.