A first-of-its-kind energy industry partnership has been announced to merge offshore helicopter operations with cutting-edge drone services.
Helicopter operator NHV has signed an agreement with Flylogix, a long-distance drone firm which serves several North Sea oil and gas operators, creating a unique industry “one-stop shop”.
Flylogix’s long-distance “mini planes” provide services including monitoring of harmful offshore methane emissions, photography to check the integrity of ageing oil and gas platforms, and defence surveillance of critical infrastructure like pipelines.
NHV will be unique in the offshore helicopter community in offering these solutions, amid rising demand for them.
For Flylogix, the deal comes as it capitalises on continued growth with the potential to add new customers and geographies to its operations.
Charles Tavner (L) and Jamie John (R) pictured at NHV’s hangar in Aberdeen
The partnership have an initial focus in the UK North Sea, primarily served out of Aberdeen and Norwich, and the East Irish Sea, with scope to expand further.
It follows Flylogix recently signing key deals with several oil and gas operators including Shell, Equinor, and Ithaca Energy for the monitoring of methane emissions from their oil and gas platforms.
Charles Tavner, Chief Executive of Flylogix, said: “This strategic partnership will bring the future of flight to the North Sea and show the industry what’s possible with leading edge drone technology.
“Already we are seeing huge demand for services from the North Sea oil and gas community, as well as applications in defence and renewables.
“In NHV, we have the ideal partner to help bring these innovative, cost-effective solutions to the market, adding value to the vital logistics work carried out every day by NHV’s helicopter crews.”
An NHV helicopter with a Flylogix drone at NHV’s hangar in Dyce, Aberdeen
Flylogix has also been deeply engaged with the Civil Aviation Authority on the future use of long-distance drones in the North Sea, with an airspace trial to allow wider use of the technology to begin this summer.
Jamie John, Chief Commercial Officer of NHV Group, said: “This partnership will deliver a one-stop shop for the energy sector, as our crew transport marries with the innovative solutions offered by drone technology.
“The world, and the UK in particular, is working hard to integrate and modernise its airspace in recognition of the vital role drone flights will play in the future.
“We are excited to bring this technology to our customers, and the broad scope of possibilities it provides for their evolving needs.
“Flylogix’s advances in both drone applications and engagement with the aviation regulator have helped make this deal possible.”