Skyways has demonstrated the unmatched ability of its technology to deliver time-critical supplies in one of the world’s toughest operating environments. In partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, Skyways successfully completed historic beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries to Arkona Offshore Windfarm, operated by RWE and located off the coast of Germany, proving that essential cargo can now reach remote locations faster, safer and more sustainably than ever before.
During a three-week series of flights, the Skyways V2 aircraft flew automated round trips of 50 miles from RWE’s seaside base to the Arkona Windfarm in the Baltic Sea. Carrying payloads of up to 22 pounds and withstanding winds up to 29.7 knots, the aircraft completed precise cargo drops directly to wind turbines, providing a vital new tool for operators who typically rely on crew transfer vessels that run on set schedules and require two hours to make the same journey. Skyways cut that time to just 26 minutes – on demand.
“At Skyways, our mission is simple: deliver what matters, where it matters, when it matters,” said Charles Acknin, CEO of Skyways. “This successful effort with our partners at Skyports and RWE once again proves our aircraft can provide offshore operators with a level of service no other delivery option can match. Whether it’s a time-critical part, medical supplies, or urgent cargo in hard-to-reach and harsh environments, Skyways can get it there.”
Skyways aircraft are uniquely engineered for long-range operations. Its dual-hybrid system, which combines electric motors for vertical takeoff and landing with a heavy-fuel engine for extended cruise, gives the V2 an operational range of almost 500 miles and their next generation aircraft, V3, a range over 1,000 miles. This design enables Skyways aircraft to complete missions in places where conventional logistics solutions are either too slow, too costly or simply impossible.
Beyond technical capability, Skyways puts the customer’s experience at the heart of its approach. By designing aircraft that are reliable, scalable and ready for real-world missions today, the company empowers operators in energy, defense, medical and critical infrastructure to solve pressing logistical challenges immediately. Skyways additionally provides comprehensive customer training on flight operations, maintenance, and how to plan and execute missions.
The pilot project at Arkona is the latest milestone in Skyways’ growing track record of delivering where others cannot. The company is now focused on scaling production of its aircraft to meet growing demand from commercial and government customers worldwide.
Acknin added: “Standing up beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations offshore is no small feat. We’re proud to see Skyways’ aircraft chosen for some of the toughest missions out there, and prouder still to know we’re helping our customers keep the world running.”
