Record-breaking BVLOS Rail Inspection Flight in Canada

We are proud to have participated in achieving a historic milestone of conducting the longest Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) aerial inspection of a rail line in Canada. On March 23, 2022, DeltaQuad Pro was set up to showcase the efficiency of BVLOS inspection for initiators, partners, and guests from AIRmarket, Transport Canada, Telus, Spexi Geospatial, rail companies, and industry enthusiasts. The entire 90-minute flight was also live-streamed for audiences worldwide.

Covering a total distance of 130 km, DeltaQuad Pro captured over 6,500 high-resolution photos of two rail lines during the mission. This comprehensive data went for subsequent analysis and was presented to Transport Canada, whose inspectors and specialists were on hand to witness the flight and ensure the success of the mission. Their involvement showcased the efforts to develop BVLOS standards for Canadian airspace, as well as the growing need for the regulatory development of Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM).

Cale Griffith, the expert pilot, demonstrated his skills remotely controlling the DeltaQuad from an Operation Command Center stationed 30 km away from the launch site. Observers were strategically positioned along the route to further ensure safety and monitoring. David Kinniburgh, the co-pilot, executed battery exchanges and critical turnaround during the mission.

Successful partnerships played a vital role in making this milestone possible. Together, we demonstrated the seamless integration of multiple technologies, providing high-quality visual data for inspection and maintenance purposes. This collaboration highlighted the immense potential of drone-powered solutions in various industries. Moreover, the cooperation with Telus, Canada’s leading telecommunications network provider, showcased the real-time use of cellular data in connection to UTM. 

This record-breaking flight is a testament to our dedication to advancing drone technology and its application in various sectors. We eagerly anticipate future missions that will redefine the use of drone-powered solutions and help meet industry demand.