Cyberhawk, a global leader in drone-based inspection services and visual data management, has secured a nationwide Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration, a significant development that will enable the company to expand its remote drone operations across the United States. This FAA authorization marks a crucial milestone for Cyberhawk, allowing it to enhance its services in critical infrastructure sectors, including utilities, oil and gas, and large-scale capital projects.
The BVLOS waiver permits Cyberhawk to operate drones beyond the operator's visual range without requiring a visual observer on the ground. This capability not only increases the efficiency and flexibility of Cyberhawk's operations but also significantly reduces operational time and costs. The company’s hydrogen-powered Gryphon drone, capable of flying for up to three hours, will be a key asset in leveraging the full potential of this waiver.
"The nationwide BVLOS waiver is a major step forward for us," said Phil Buchan, Cyberhawk's Chief Operating Officer. "It underscores our dedication to innovation and safety, enabling us to offer even greater value to our customers. With this authorization, we can provide unparalleled inspection, survey, and data solutions that drive efficiency and enhance safety."
The benefits of the BVLOS waiver extend beyond operational efficiency. By reducing the need for ground personnel, the waiver enhances safety by minimizing human exposure to hazardous environments. It also allows Cyberhawk to cover larger and more remote areas, ensuring that critical infrastructure is effectively monitored and maintained.
Scott Lashmit, Cyberhawk's U.S. Aviation Manager, highlighted the practical advantages of the waiver, noting, "With this nationwide authorization, we can potentially more than double the number of assets surveyed in a day, saving our customers valuable time and costs. Rapid access to actionable data and images is crucial for our customers to make informed decisions that ensure the safety and integrity of critical infrastructure."
Cyberhawk's continued focus on innovation in drone technology and data analytics has established it as a leader in the commercial drone sector. The nationwide BVLOS waiver further solidifies the company's position and opens up new opportunities for delivering high-precision aerial inspections and advanced data solutions to its clients across the continental U.S.