Toronto, CANADA – Volatus Aerospace, which recently merged with Drone Delivery Canada, has received Transport Canada approval for long-distance, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), remote drone operations at night in low-density areas, enabling critical missions like border surveillance, facility security, and cargo delivery.
"The ability to remotely operate drones over long distances at night marks a transformative step forward in our ability to provide our customers with 24/7 drone operations and access to nighttime critical missions all across Canada," said Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace.
"This is particularly important for border security efforts requiring continuous surveillance in areas that are difficult to monitor, especially at night. We are profoundly grateful for the support and guidance provided by Transport Canada. Their commitment to advancing our industry has been essential to enabling us to scale and grow our capabilities."
Flying at night presents less air and ground risk, enabling operations that may not be able to happen in the day, the company statement said, adding that many of the advanced sensors that it uses can be flown day or night and, in some cases, are required to be flown in nighttime conditions.
“This Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) enables us to operate drones remotely from our Operations Control Centre (OCC) for longer-range operations,” Volatus said.
For example, thermal operations for thermal wildfire detection happen at night when the variations in temperatures are greater, and it is easier to see where thermal anomalies that could cause a reignition. In search and rescue operations, emergency personnel often have to stop looking at night, losing precious time.
“Remotely operated drones equipped with infrared (IR) can keep the search going throughout the night, greatly improving the chances of a positive outcome.”
Additionally, this approval will enable the company to provide delivery service to its current and future clients at any time of the day, which is especially important for hospitals needing to transport critical medical goods.
“This approval is just the first step. Volatus is fully committed to securing multiple Canada-wide SFOCs, focusing on enabling key sectors for Volatus especially in pipeline right of way and utility transmission inspections.
“These efforts will support the diverse and growing scope of our operations and ensure that Volatus continues to lead the industry in offering cutting-edge aerial solutions.”