World First In Antwerp Port Area: Drone Network Officially Launched

Six autonomous drones will perform daily flights in the Antwerp port area, a world first that will make an important contribution to the overall security of the complex port environment. Launched, today, the ‘D-Hive drone-in-a-box’ network is the result of a partnership between the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, DroneMatrix, SkeyDrone, and Proximus.

Six extra pairs of eyes
The Antwerp port area is more than 120km², an area that will now be covered by the D-Hive network of six autonomous drones. They will provide extra pairs of eyes to help coordinate smooth, safe, and sustainable operations in this complex environment. The drones will offer a unique perspective from the air and enable the port authorities to manage, inspect and supervise a large area, quickly and effectively.

World first in Antwerp port area. Image Credit: Port of Antwerp Bruges

The port will use the drones for a range of functions including berth management, monitoring, infrastructure inspections, oil spill and floating waste detection, and to support security partners during incidents. The 18 daily BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone flights will be remotely controlled from a Command and Control Centre in the heart of the port.

World First
This is the first implementation worldwide of BVLOS flights on this scale in a complex industrial environment. Unlike VLOS (Visual Line Of Sight) flights, these will take place out of the pilot’s sight. Port of Antwerp-Bruges is working with partners DroneMatrix, SkeyDrone, and Proximus for the D-Hive network.

Two months ago, the partners were given the green light to launch the drone network. This operational permit was built around a new BVLOS framework (known as pre-Uspace airspace), built by Skeydrone and approved by the BCAA (Belgian Civil Aviation Authority) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), as an appropriate and safe framework for BVLOS drone flights.

Live feed of port activities
Port of Antwerp-Bruges already had the vision of building a network of autonomous drones in 2019, because of the important role they could play in helping to create the port of the future. Several tests have taken place and there was participation in the SAFIR project to investigate the feasibility of drones at the port. As a result, the ambition of a network of autonomous drones is now a reality.

Press Release

⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.

1. eBooks for Engine Department

Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.

👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks

2. eBooks for Deck Department

Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.

👉Discover Deck Department eBooks

3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues

Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.

👉Get Electrical eBooks

4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference

Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.

👉 Browse Pocket Guide eBooks

5. Combo Packs to Save Big

Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.

👉 Grab Combo Pack Offers

6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace

Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.

👉 Join Online Maritime Courses

Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.