heliguy takes flight with UK-first drone approval

A North East drone specialist has secured a groundbreaking UK-first approval, paving the way for remote drone operations without a pilot on-site.

North Shields-based heliguy has been granted authorisation by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to conduct drone-in-a-box flights beyond visual line of sight, following successful trials at Komatsu’s Smart Construction facility in County Durham, with bosses hailing the decision as “transformative” for businesses.

This means drones can be deployed remotely from heliguy’s Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate headquarters, allowing operators to control flights across the UK from its Remote Operations Control Centre (The Rocc).

Unlike traditional drones that require pilots to maintain visual contact, heliguy’s system enables near-instant takeoff while remaining within a pre-approved safe flight path. 

While additional sites will require CAA approval, heliguy plans to offer consultancy services to help businesses implement the technology. 

Michael Smith, heliguy’s head of operations, said: “Drones are routinely used for everything from oil and gas pipeline inspections, to keeping prisons and construction sites safe. 

“In the past that has meant having the pilot on-site, but this decision changes everything.

“For instance, it could transform the security industry, with one drone - capable of recording evidence in real-time - capable of carrying out round-the-clock patrols on big sites.

“That could help businesses make substantial multi-year savings. 

“Additionally, for pipeline or wind turbine inspections, the ability to fly BVLOS could dramatically speed up the time it takes to complete the job.

“However, we are increasingly seeing demand from an array of industries - from professional football clubs to universities - keen on utilising drones to see just how transformative they can be for a business.”

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