Drones
in the port of Rotterdam
Drones are already widely used in the port of Rotterdam, including by the Port of Rotterdam Authority. Companies in the port area and government bodies purchase drone services from specialised operators or set up their own drone teams.
Application possibilities
Drones have become an integral part of port operations, with more than 75 companies providing drone services across the port’s industrial complex. The number of providers continues to grow, as does the range of applications, which are currently focused mainly on supporting business processes. Examples include monitoring and supervising port activities, carrying out measurements (such as dry bulk stockpiles, traffic patterns on terminals, progress on major construction projects and 3D volumetric surveys), producing mapping imagery of underground pipelines, inspecting infrastructure such as cranes and wind turbines, conducting (security) checks and being rapidly deployed as a first responder in the event of fires and incidents. The applications are wide-ranging and are used by both port companies and public authorities.
Future outlook
The use of drones is expected to increase in the coming years, provided that safety can be assured. To allow for this growth, the airspace is being prepared step by step for new applications: autonomous flight, operations over cities, ports and industrial areas, parcel delivery and, in the longer term, even unmanned cargo and passenger flights. European regulations, which have been in force since 1 January 2021, enable this development and encourage innovation in smart mobility and logistics. The Port of Rotterdam Authority works closely with government and industry partners to organise the airspace above the port so these new opportunities can be used safely and efficiently.
A secure port
While drones offer many opportunities, they also pose safety and security risks. They can be misused for undesirable purposes, such as covertly filming individuals, corporate espionage, preparing criminal activity, drug-related crime, smuggling or even terrorist acts. Together with various governance partners, the Port of Rotterdam Authority is developing measures to protect the port against these threats.
HI FROM THE FUTURE
Drones don't just fly. In the port of Rotterdam, they also sail, drive and dive. Even in confined spaces and underwater. Discover how drones are making the port safer and more sustainable.
