RPAS in Fiji


FIJI’S first ever licenced heavy duty remotely piloted aircraft operator, Skyward Industries Ltd, has been recognised by the Spatial Industries Business Association (SIBA) for its efforts to provide revolutionary technology in Fiji and the South Pacific.

The company licenced to operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Fiji, was part of a special group of agencies present at the SOPAC Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing conference where it was awarded the SIBA geospatial excellence, innovation and commercialisation in the Pacific prize.

With only a few months in operation, the company has been making headlines with its innovative technology in Fiji and continues to build a client base that includes government agencies.

Skyward managing director and CEO Kevin Rotsaert said the award was proof Fiji was adapting to the changing world of technology.

“The importance and significance of this award is that it represents Fiji as being able to introduce this revolutionary technology that is making such a huge impact on the world stage,” he said.

“We are able to keep up with the changing times and have this technology in our very shores and that is something that we are very proud of.

“We are pushing the boundaries in Fiji and this award recognises our ability to do that with the collaboration of all of our stakeholders including government.

“With a wealth of knowledge and experience in manned and unmanned aviation, electrical engineering, robotics, and business development, the company aims to provide above and beyond industry standards.”

During the GIS user conference in Suva last month, the company along with eight other innovative agencies in the Asia Pacific region were recognised for their contribution to advancing technological services.

Skyward was also confirmed as a finalist for the Asia Pacific excellence awards in Brisbane, which was a premier spatial event in the Asia Pacific calendar.

ASPEA representative Kellee Ireland said the standard of award entries was outstanding, making the judging very difficult. Ms Ireland applauded the hard work carried out by companies such as Skayward for taking a lead innovative technology in the Pacific.

“I applaud your hard work in acquiring this prestigious designation. This award sends a clear message to the Spatial and wider community that you are committed to addressing your customers’ needs while striving for excellence.”

Mr Rotsaert says as the company ends 2014 on a high note, Skyward is prepared for another positive year in 2015.

“We are really happy that our services and products are in demand and we have a couple of large projects already lined up for next year. We will be working with the Water Authority of Fiji to compile three dimensional images of water pockets in all the major cities like Suva, Lautoka and Nadi.

“With various partnerships and contacts internationally, our staff is devoted to providing the most optimal solutions for a large variety of clients.

“Clients include multi-million dollar developments, government agencies, construction, real estate, airline, marketing agencies resorts and many more.

He said the company was a proud industry developer of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the South Pacific.

“After months of closely collaborating with the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji and other government departments, we’ve emerged successful in developing a solid regulatory platform.”

The company provides a wide array of services including 3D aerial mapping and virtual surveying, aerial media (photography and cinematography), UAS research and development, and private runway consulting and building.

Source: The Fiji Times

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