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22. September 2025
Revolutionizing Offshore Logistics: Swissdrones And Omni Unmanned Unlock Energy Sector Efficiency
The Future of Offshore Logistics: Revolutionizing Energy Sector Operations with SwissDrones and OMNI Unmanned
SwissDrones, a leading aerial intelligence solutions provider, and OMNI Unmanned, the air transport leader serving the oil sector and part of OMNI Helicopters International (OHI) Group, recently completed an offshore Proof-of-Concept trial for an energy company in Brazil. This trailblazing experiment marked a significant milestone in the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into offshore logistics, showcasing the potential for faster, safer, greener, and more cost-effective air transport between offshore platforms.
The trial featured a first-of-its-kind Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operation in Brazil, utilizing SwissDrones’ SDO 50, a long-range Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) unmanned helicopter with high payload capacity. The UAV’s impressive capabilities were put to the test under severe weather conditions with high winds, controlled by OMNI Táxi Aéreo pilots.
The multi-day trials saw the UAV successfully fly between offshore platforms off the coast of Rio de Janeiro, demonstrating its ability to navigate complex environments and execute complex missions. The mission included two phases of piloting with ground teams on each platform and seamless midflight autonomous handover of the aircraft. This innovative approach highlighted the potential for increased efficiency and reduced costs in offshore logistics.
During the trials, a real-world operational requirement arose, where a piece of equipment was urgently needed on another platform to prevent downtime. The SDO 50 successfully delivered the part, averting significant additional costs of moving the equipment by boat or helicopter, as well as reducing operational downtime. This scenario illustrates the potential for UAVs to alleviate logistical challenges in the energy sector, providing faster and more reliable access to remote offshore platforms.
“It’s great to see energy companies embracing long-range UAV technology that offers faster, safer, greener, and more cost-effective air transport between offshore platforms,” said Ulrich Amberg, CEO of SwissDrones. “This project offers a glimpse into the near future of the offshore energy sector, where interaction between platforms is dynamic, convenient, and safer than ever before.”
Unmanned Aircraft: A Solution for Today’s Energy Challenges
Roberto Coimbra, Board Director at the OHI Group, emphasized the significance of UAVs in addressing real-world challenges in the energy sector. “Unmanned aircraft are no longer a next-generation solution for the energy industry; they’re a solution that’s applicable, deployable, and needed today,” he said.
The innovative trials showcase the value of UAVs for offshore cargo deliveries. With a compact physical footprint, UAVs enable easy onboard storage and deployment on offshore platforms where space is limited and valuable. Additionally, unmanned helicopters decrease safety risks and carbon emissions compared to their conventional counterparts, making them an attractive option for environmentally conscious energy companies.
The success of this trial marks a significant step forward in the development of long-range UAVs for offshore applications. As technology continues to advance, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative solutions emerge, further solidifying the role of UAVs in the energy sector.
Incorporating UAV technology into offshore platforms will not only reduce operational costs but also enhance safety and efficiency. With the ability to navigate complex environments and execute complex missions, UAVs have the potential to transform the way energy companies interact with remote offshore platforms.
The integration of UAVs into offshore logistics has far-reaching implications for the energy sector. By leveraging this technology, energy companies can improve their operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase safety. As the demand for energy continues to grow, it’s essential that industries like oil and gas adopt innovative technologies like UAVs to address logistical challenges.
The future of offshore operations is likely to be shaped by UAVs, which will play a critical role in transforming the way energy companies interact with remote platforms. With their ability to navigate complex environments and execute complex missions, UAVs have the potential to revolutionize the industry and create a more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective future for offshore logistics.
The success of this trial demonstrates that UAVs are no longer a next-generation solution but rather an essential tool for energy companies operating in remote offshore environments. As the energy sector continues to evolve, it’s essential that we prioritize innovation and adoption of cutting-edge technologies like UAVs to ensure a sustainable and efficient future.