Port of Zeebrugge and IDRONECT digitize drone traffic in port area

The Port Authority of Zeebrugge introduces a new tool for handling drone requests in the port area with partner IDRONECT on September 1, 2021. 

The port area is a geographical UAS zone, where specific restrictions apply to drone flights. The digitalization of the applications provides a more efficient handling and a centralization of the data. By incorporating the current EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) regulations into the UTM-software, IDRONECT UTM's software helps to ensure that each application complies with these regulations. The software also visualizes the planned drone flights and gives the port authority a live view of the active drones in the port area.   

In the port of Zeebrugge, the "Regulations Geographical UAS Zone - Geozone PoZ" are in force. This was drawn up in response to the Ministerial Decree establishing permanent geographic UAS zones and access conditions for permanent geographic UAS zones. As a result, drone operators must take into account a number of additional restrictions in the port area.   

Submitting an application for a drone flight therefore also means that sufficient information must flow through to the port authority and other parties in good time. This includes, for example, a flight plan, a pilot license, an operational authorisation issued by the Directorate General of Aviation (DGLV), contact and registration details of both pilot and operator, etc.   

The new tool, accessible via portofzeebrugge.idronect.com, optimizes the flow of information and provides a clear and innovative solution for all parties involved, including concessionaires in the port area, the military, the local police, the maritime police and the MUG helicopter.  The regulations and the manual for the use of the software, can be found on Zedis (https://zedis.portofzeebrugge.be/), as well as on the Port of Zeebrugge website (https://portofzeebrugge.be/en/shipping). 

Tom Hautekiet, CEO Port of Zeebrugge:

"As a port we want to be a driving force in terms of innovation and digitalization. In all our projects we want to set an example and at the same time offer support to our port customers. The cooperation with IDRONECT for the drone traffic in our port is fully in line with these objectives. It is also yet another application that relies on the 5G network we installed in our port area in 2020. Thanks to the 5G network, numerous applications are possible for the port itself, but also for the companies located here."  

Tom Verbruggen, CEO IDRONECT:

"With IDRONECT we are strongly committed to safety and innovation. Thanks to the UTM application for the Port of Zeebrugge, we offer drone operators the possibility to prepare and request their flights in a very intuitive way, while ensuring that the port authority knows at all times what is going on in the air above the port area. I am delighted that together, as two Belgian companies, we have been able to shape a future-oriented solution that is both pragmatic and innovative."