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Building a scalable #drone company is no longer just about technology — it's about execution. At Aerial Cities 2024, the panel on #funding a scalable business model brought together top voices from both startup and investment circles to share what really makes drone ventures fundable and #scalable in today's capital environment. Their advice? Focus less on the pitch deck, and more on the #business behind the drone. Key takeaways from the panel: ➡️ Market fragmentation is a major barrier. Too many companies are chasing too little #revenue, and it's diluting investor confidence. ➡️ #Pilot projects are no longer impressive. If your system isn't generating daily usage or ongoing revenue, it's not considered viable. ➡️ It's not just about #airworthiness — it's about business readiness and financial fluency. That means certifications, compliance, field support, and scaling strategy. ➡️ What makes a drone company attractive for investors in 2025? Clear market focus, proven use cases, and the ability to articulate a scalable business model — strengthened by real numbers and strong execution. Moderated by Kara Jones, Director of GENIUS NY, this discussion featured Mark Green, Managing Director & Head of Technology Banking at Ladenburg Thalman; Eric Brock, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Ondas Holdings; Gwen Lighter, CEO of GoAero; Philip Buchan, COO at Cyberhawk; and Alex Pachikov, Co-Founder & CEO of Sunflower Labs.Watch the full panel discussion to find out what investors are really looking for — and how drone startups can stand out in a crowded market.

"You might spend more money on our product in upfront cost; it's about ten times higher, but you'd have to buy more than ten sets of #batteries to run for 1,500 hours," said Andy Kelly from Intelligent Energy. For operators scaling industrial #drone missions, the math is clear — hydrogen-powered #UAVs fly longer, reduce fleet downtime, and slash total cost of ownership. With 3X the endurance of lithium-powered #drones, Intelligent Energy's IE-SOAR fuel cells are already transforming industries such as mapping, LiDAR surveying, infrastructure inspection, and defence. In real-world tests, a hydrogen-powered UAV flew 483% longer than a battery-powered drone under identical conditions. At the Commercial UAV News Expo 2024, Andy Kelly, Head of Product at Intelligent Energy, joined our Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovács, to discuss why #hydrogen is the key to scalable #UAV operations, beyond #BVLOS limitations, and ready for commercial adoption today. From offshore wind farm inspections covering 150 miles in a single flight to eliminating fleet downtime with 1,500-hour fuel cell lifespans, Intelligent Energy is reshaping UAV capabilities and making industrial drone operations truly viable. Watch the full interview to hear Andy's insights on how hydrogen UAVs are unlocking new commercial opportunities and driving industry-wide adoption.

At Aerial Cities 2024, panellists discussed “Trends and opportunities: An industry perspective on the past successes and challenges ahead.” Key takeaways from the discussion: ➡️ Manna Air Delivery proves #profitability is possible — but #regulation is the roadblock. Operating thousands of flights per month with just four aircraft, Manna has built a revenue-generating suburban delivery model. Yet, slow regulatory progress is limiting expansion in key markets like the UK. ➡️ "A bad #framework is better than no framework." Industry leaders stressed that unpredictable #BVLOS regulations are keeping businesses in trial mode. The US and Italy are advancing, while the UK remains stuck in test environments without a clear path to commercial #scaling. ➡️ AI, #satellite tech, and detect-and-avoid systems are the backbone of large-scale #drone operations. Amazon Prime Air is refining multi-layered detect-and-avoid systems, while Telespazio is solving #GPS accuracy issues in urban environments with satellite-based navigation. Moderated by Lorenzo Murzilli, Co-founder & CEO of Murzilli Consulting, the session featured expert insights from: Carlos Hernandez Medel, CCO at Telespazio Ibérica; Duncan Casey, UK Head of Airworthiness & Certification at Amazon Prime Air; Bobby Healy, Founder & CEO of Manna Drone Delivery; Alex Brown, Director at Skyports Drone Services; Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace; and Ewa Gowers, Head of SARG Operations & Programmes at the UK Civil Aviation Authority (representing Sofia S. from the Department for Transport (DfT), United Kingdom).

Scaling a #drone #business is harder than ever — so how are top #investors spotting winners?  At Aerial Cities 2024, we went straight to the source. The #investment landscape has shifted dramatically, and only the most adaptable businesses will survive. Raising #capital is no longer only about #innovative tech.  Today, it's all about real #revenue, smart #scaling strategies, and knowing when to pivot. Key takeaways from the panel discussion: ➡️ A few years ago, proof of concept was enough to secure investment. Now, investors want tangible revenue and a clear path to #profitability. ➡️ #Adaptability is critical to survival. Startups must build strong, flexible teams that can #pivot, take feedback, and navigate challenges. ➡️ #Regulations can make or break you. Companies working with #regulators, rather than waiting for policy changes, will gain a #competitive advantage. Moderated by Dario Di Martino, Founder & CEO of DMD Solutions, the panel featured top industry voices, including Gabriela Matic, Co-founder & Director at Metta/ Venture Partner at Aerospace Xelerated; Gary Cutts, Challenge Director for Future Flight at UK Research and Innovation; Gordon Baker, Policy Advisor for Robotics at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology; and Etienne Louvet, Founder & CEO of IONA. 

“We bring in the right drone service providers to make sure a customer who wants to inspect a dam, for example, can buy the service and the package and be certain everything is working rather than looking around for each component separately.” - says Kristofer Skantze, CEO of Xer Technologies, who sees #Switzerland as the future of UAV #innovation — a place where #drone companies can scale, work together, and thrive. At the 2024 Commercial UAV News Expo, Kristofer sat down with Thilo Uebbert, Senior Consultant for Programme Management at Murzilli Consulting, to discuss: ✅ Why Switzerland is the ideal home for #UAV companies ✅ How #verticalisation has fuelled Xer Technologies' rapid growth ✅ The biggest challenges facing the industry, from talent shortages to #regulatory hurdles  To drive UAV innovation forward, Kristofer emphasised the need for stronger industry #collaboration, pragmatic #regulations, and end-to-end #solutions rather than just hardware. 

"We hate testing, demonstration, and trial. We started the company with a customer — a signed contract two years after the creation of the company." By putting real-world #operations ahead of endless #pilots, ADLC is proving that industrial drone #logistics isn't just the future — it's happening now. ADLC's authorised #BVLOS flights cover a 12.5km route in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, with #drones capable of carrying payloads of up to 15kg. Projects such as #SAMPLIFLY have reduced sample transport times from 40 minutes to 10, slashing CO₂ emissions by 80%. With €2M in seed #funding, the company is expanding its network across European #ports and offshore industries, driving #regulatory progress and setting new standards for efficiency. At ‪@ADWworld‬ Connecting Air Mobility Worldwide 2024, Rayan Quintaes, Co-founder & CEO of ADLC, sat down with Lorenzo Murzilli, Co-founder and CEO of Murzilli Consulting, to discuss how ADLC is integrating drone delivery into industrial supply chains, scaling operations beyond European ports, and ensuring compliance with the latest U-space #regulations.

DroneTalks | How Zipline is advancing UTM with the Dallas-Fort Worth project and global airspace integration“What we're doing in Texas, we can replicate worldwide.” By eliminating the need for visual observers and implementing strategic#deconfliction, Zipline is paving the way for scalable global drone deliveries, reducing costs and expanding access to critical goods.At the Commercial UAV News Expo 2024, Peter Sachs, Head of Airspace Integration Strategy at Zipline, joined our Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovács, to discuss Zipline's challenges and opportunities in scaling#drone services globally, from regulatory complexities to operational efficiencies. Peter also provided a firsthand look at the Dallas-Fort Worth UTM Key Site project, a critical initiative in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as well as several other drone delivery companies, that's advancing safe and efficient#airspace integration, setting new industry standards, and unlocking opportunities for future drone services.

This year at Aerial Cities 2024 in#London, we kicked off the conference with a compelling panel discussion on the emerging trends and the evolving landscape of aerial#mobility in urban environments.Key insights from the panel:➡️ Infrastructure milestones: Hamburg Aviation celebrated the opening of a dedicated#drone port, enabling real-world testing and public demonstrations.➡️ Regulatory progress: The UK's CAA highlighted advancements with the#SORA methodology and digitised application processes, enabling new operational possibilities for#drones.➡️ Urban integration challenges: Dublin and Coventry discussed the critical need to embed drone#technology into urban planning frameworks and shared their approaches to public engagement and collaboration.➡️ Public acceptance: Hamburg and Coventry emphasised the importance of transparent communication about drones' public benefits, such as medical deliveries and flood#monitoring.➡️ Balancing regulations: Madrid outlined the importance of cautious, step-by-step#regulatory development to ensure fair use of urban#airspace while addressing challenges like rogue drone operators and airspace monitoring.➡️ Collaboration as the key to progress: UK's CAA also emphasised that aerial mobility is an ecosystem requiring all players to move forward together.Initiatives like the UK's Future Flight Action Plan were highlighted as examples of coordinated efforts aligning#regulation, operations, and technology.Moderated by Lorenzo Murzilli, Co-founder and CEO of Murzilli Consulting, the panel featured key figures such as Denise Braemer (Project Lead, CITYAM, Hamburg Aviation), Sunil Budhdeo (Transport Innovation Manager, Coventry City Council), Thomas Curran (Head of Survey & Mapping Division, Dublin City Council), Ewa Gowers (Head of SARG Operations & Programmes, UK Civil Aviation Authority), and José Javier Rodríguez Hernández (Deputy Director of Traffic Management and Taxi Service, Ayuntamiento de Madrid).

“We're always pushing the edge and trying to innovate while maintaining safe operations within whatever regulatory framework we have to work in." - Scott Lashmit, U.S. Aviation Manager at Cyberhawk. Last year, Cyberhawk experienced record-breaking revenue growth of 55%, reaching $28.7 million, a testament to what's possible when #innovation meets a commitment to safety. During the Commercial UAV News Expo, Scott sat down with Thilo Uebbert, Senior Consultant for Programme Management at Murzilli Consulting, to share how Cyberhawk has scaled successfully in a constantly evolving industry. From navigating 40 different regulatory authorities to training pilots in “The Cyberhawk Way,” their journey highlights what it takes to grow while setting the standard for #safety and operational excellence. Scott shared three pillars that have been instrumental to their success: 1️⃣ Reliable #technology from trusted manufacturers. 2️⃣ Strong internal procedures and thorough #pilot training. 3️⃣ Community #outreach to build trust and understanding. Scaling a drone company isn't easy, but Cyberhawk proves it's possible with the right strategy and values.

Volatus Aerospace is driving global #growth with its recent merger with Drone Delivery Canada, expanding capabilities in #cargo delivery and #autonomous #drone operations. Alongside strategic acquisitions, the company is empowering the next generation through the #SEAR Program, which equips #students with skills in drone #technology and #data analysis to solve real-world challenges. At the 2024 Commercial UAV News Expo in Las Vegas, our Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovács, interviewed Volatus Aerospace's Abhinav Singhvi, CFO, and Danielle Gagne, Head of Marketing and Communications. They shared insights of their strong foundation in safety, compliance, and #innovation. From industry consolidation to public engagement, Volatus is setting new standards in drone services and paving the way for the future of #aviation. Learn how they're shaping the drone industry with innovation, education, and global expansion

"AirborneRF's Self-Service Portal allows drone operators to easily access connectivity data directly through the website, without the need for an API, enabling more efficient planning and execution of BVLOS missions." At the Commercial UAV Expo 2024, Eszter Kovács, CEO of DroneTalks, interviewed Paul Dolejschi from Dimetor to discuss the launch of the AirborneRF Self-Service Portal and its impact on #BVLOS #drone #operations.

With over 200 stakeholders and groundbreaking initiatives like CITYAM, Hamburg Aviation is leading the charge in #urbanairmobility, #sustainableaviation, and international collaboration. Based in Hamburg, Germany -- a global hub of #aviationinnovation -- this dynamic cluster is uniting industry giants like Airbus, Lufthansa Technik, and innovative startups to revolutionise how cities integrate drone technology. “If we're thinking about the cities of tomorrow, we need to consider drone integration today,” said Denise Braemer, Project Lead at Hamburg Aviation. At Amsterdam Drone Week 2024, DroneTalks Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovács, met Hamburg Aviation's Denise Braemer to explore how the organisation is transforming urban airspaces through collaborative innovations and pilot projects, which highlight the transformative potential of drones in city operations. In partnership with the Hamburg Port Authority, 100+ #drone flights in the harbour demonstrated how drones can streamline floodgate inspections — reducing time, labour, and costs compared to traditional methods. From fostering public trust with interactive demonstration #flights to advancing #greentech through lightweight materials and sustainable fuels, Hamburg Aviation is setting the standard for smarter, greener cities -- proving that #collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of drone technology.

With BVLOS operations in 14 countries and regulatory approvals in 35 and over a decade of excellence, SwissDrones has become a trailblazer in the #drone industry, creating #unmanned helicopter systems that are transforming #infrastructure inspections, emergency response, and search and rescue missions worldwide. Headquartered in Switzerland, a global hub for #aerospace #innovation, SwissDrones operates with a commitment to #precision #engineering and #sustainability. Their flagship system, the SDO 50V2, offers unmatched capabilities, from advanced #sensor #integration to #BVLOS #operations, cutting CO2 emissions by up to 95% compared to traditional helicopters. Murzilli Consulting's Senior Consultant for Programme Management, Thilo Uebbert, sat down with SwissDrones' CEO, Ulrich Amberg, at this year's Commercial UAV News Expo in Las Vegas, to dive into the company's journey, technological breakthroughs, and the global opportunities that contribute to their growth. The company reached groundbreaking milestones like Australia's 500km BVLOS authorisation, SwissDrones is proving its global impact.

One airspace for all - military, civil aviation, and drones!  Our CEO, Eszter Kovacs, recently visited Ticino Innovation Park, and Swiss Drone Competence Center where ⁠#military⁠, civil ⁠#aviation⁠, and ⁠#drones⁠ coexist and are tested in a singular, shared ⁠#airspace⁠ - a groundbreaking achievement in ⁠#aviation⁠.  Through interviews with key figures, Eszter explored why companies choose this location for their testing: it's not just the advanced technology, but also the collaborative environment and the precision-driven support from universities like ETH Zurich and USI. This shared airspace represents a unique opportunity for testing in real-world conditions, where different sectors can coexist and push the boundaries of UAV technology. The park stands out not just for its cutting-edge technology but for fostering true cross-industry collaboration, all within Switzerland's renowned framework of ⁠#quality⁠ and ⁠#safety⁠ standards.

At Amsterdam Drone Week 2024, our Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovacs, had an in-depth conversation with Manu Lubrano, Co-founder and CEO of INVOLI, to explore their game-changing approach to airspace management. By strategically installing 400+ air traffic receivers on wind turbines across Germany, positioned at 150 metres above ground, INVOLI is not only improving drone and aircraft visibility but also supporting compliance with the latest regulations to reduce light pollution. Their advanced multilateration technology detects low-altitude aircraft and offers real-time traffic awareness down to ground level. This precise data is now being integrated by local drone operators to enable BVLOS flights and complex drone operations, effectively transforming the way drones are utilised in German airspace. INVOLI's collaboration with the wind turbine industry is a clear example of how they adapt their solutions to meet industry-specific needs, driving innovation in sectors that go beyond traditional air traffic management. Ready to learn how INVOLI is bridging the gap between unmanned and manned aviation while addressing real-world challenges? Watch the full interview and discover how they're setting new standards in U-Space development and airspace safety.

“Iridium is really a company that has changed the paradigm in space communication,” - Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO. Ever wondered how Elon Musk's SpaceX helped transform a company into the only satellite network that covers every inch of the globe?  Iridium's journey is nothing short of epic - a story of innovation, resilience, and daring partnerships that have redefined what's possible in satellite communications. In this recent interview at Amsterdam Drone Week, Joe Darden, Associate Director of Aviation Business Development at Iridium, and Eszter Kovács, Co-Founder and CEO of DroneTalks, had an insightful conversation about the company's history and the way how they provide satellite communication services for BVLOS drone flights.  By daring to collaborate with SpaceX at a time when the company was still an emerging player, and embracing automation, Iridium has transformed its operations, to manage a constellation that ensures seamless, low-latency connectivity across the entire planet - a key capability for industries like drones and aviation.  In this conversation, Eszter and Joe delve deeply into lessons learned from other industries that can be adapted for drone technology. They also explore how satellite capabilities enhance and elevate drone services to a new level. Do you want to meet Joe? Be a part of our VIP, invitation-only event, Aerial Cities, where one of our esteemed partners is Iridium.

What if drones could do more than just fly? What if they could transform entire industries? Lorenzo Murzilli, co-founder and CEO of Murzilli Consulting had an insightful discussion with Soo Soon Teong, SVP and Head of Unmanned Systems at ST Engineering, at this year's Amsterdam Drone Week. In our exclusive interview, Soo Soon explains how ST Engineering isn't just creating drones but is at the forefront of integrating advanced AI and safety technologies to deliver comprehensive solutions that enhance efficiency and safety across various sectors. ST Engineering is redefining the boundaries of unmanned systems with its innovative approach and solutions that go beyond the drone itself. With a team of 70 to 80 specialists, Soo Soon highlights their latest developments, including a successful demonstration in Europe that showcased the potential of multi-UAV operations to execute complex tasks with minimal manpower. The conversation touches on the evolution from selling mere drones to providing end-to-end solutions that include sophisticated UAV operating systems and rigorous safety protocols designed to meet high safety integrity levels.

What does the future hold for unmanned aircraft in the skies above us? Explore the evolving landscape of aviation with Michele Merkle, Director of the Air Navigation Bureau at ICAO, in an enlightening conversation hosted by Eszter Kovacs, our co-founder and CEO during Amsterdam Drone Week 2024. This in-depth discussion unveils the new horizons of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and their seamless integration into international airspace. Michele provides an insider's view on ICAO's new regulations for international Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) operations. Learn how these regulations are set to revolutionize air travel by enhancing safety, improving efficiency, and promoting international cooperation. Beyond technology, Michele addresses a crucial aspect of aviation's future: diversity. She shares her personal experiences and professional insights on why fostering a diverse workforce is essential for innovation in air navigation, making the industry more dynamic and inclusive. If you're part of a startup or interested in the intersection of innovation and aviation, this conversation is a must-watch. Michele offers valuable advice on navigating the complexities of the aviation industry and how startups can play a key role in shaping its future.

Our Co-founder and CEO, Eszter Kovacs reconnected with Mark Watson, Head of UTM Service Integration at NATS, during this year's Amsterdam Drone Week. In our exclusive interview, they dived deep into the evolution of UK airspace management and discussed groundbreaking initiatives shaping the future of aviation. Big numbers speak louder than words: NATS oversees more than 2.5 million flights annually and steers the nation towards advanced air mobility with ambitious targets. Mark shares insights into the UK's bold steps towards the future with their latest "Future of Flight Action Plan." This strategic document lays out a clear timeline for integrating BVLOS operations by 2027 and kickstarting eVTOL operations as early as 2025! Get the inside scoop as well on NATS' groundbreaking OpenAir initiative, aimed at creating a seamless integration of unmanned aerial vehicles into national airspace. This approach seeks to reduce barriers for new entrants, fostering a robust environment for drone operation across the UK. Join us as we explore these transformative initiatives that are not just reshaping the UK's airspace but are also setting a global benchmark in aviation technology. To watch the full interview please visit our YouTube channel!

Imagine a drone that can stay airborne for days without a battery change, and can be flown more than 900 hours nonstop in a single flight, even in rain and snow. Now, envision it flying over 140,000 missions a year across 26 different countries! Welcome to the world of Fotokite, where cutting-edge technology meets critical real-world applications. Crafted with the renowned Swiss precision and quality, Fotokite's drones are designed to perform exceptionally under any conditions. In an exclusive interview with Thomas Dassler, Fotokite's Sales Director for the Middle East and Asia, our Co-founder & CEO, Eszter Kovacs explored how their revolutionary tethered drones are redefining aerial surveillance and support for first responders globally. From extended flights to hands-free operations, Fotokite is keeping eyes in the sky longer, safer, and more efficient than ever before. Trusted by major organizations such as the Los Angeles Fire Department, NYPD, and Chicago Fire Department, Fotokite is transforming public safety operations across the globe. Learn from Thomas about Fotokite's strategic expansion into Asia and the Middle East, and how their technology meets unique operational needs while navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel to gain deeper insights into how Fotokite is keeping skies safe and operations efficient!

Think AI is just about chatbots? Think again! Did you know that AI is playing a critical role in drone operations? In our exclusive interview led by Eszter Kovacs, Co-founder and CEO of DroneTalks, with Shoji Nishimura, COO of Intent Exchange, we delve into how their innovative Automated Negotiation AI is not just a concept but a practical tool already improving the safety and efficiency of aerial operations. This technology, developed under one of NATO's projects and supported by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Industry and Technology, is actively deployed in high-stakes environments. Key takeaway: Intent Exchange's AI isn't merely about automating tasks; it's about creating smarter, scalable solutions that tackle the complex challenges of modern drone operations. By digitalizing negotiation and conflict resolution, they're setting a new standard for what AI can achieve in the drone industry. During a demonstration in Wakkanai, Japan, Intent Exchange's AI coordinated a network of drones delivering medical supplies. It seamlessly integrated with local air traffic, ensuring timely deliveries while adhering to stringent safety standards. Another key application of their AI technology is in urban settings where it assesses and visualizes ground risks, optimizing drone flight paths to avoid densely populated areas or sensitive infrastructures. This technology not only improves safety but also enhances the efficiency of drone operations in complex environments. Watch the full interview to learn more about the future of AI in drone technology!

Can you imagine using a decade of weather data to fly drones safely? Learn more about how Unisphere leverages historical insights for drone operations from our latest interview with Richard Boden, Director of the Business Unit at Murzilli Consulting, and Christoph Selig, COO and Co-founder of the company. Positioned at the forefront of drone operations management and UAM, Unisphere is redefining aerial logistics with its innovative platforms, NOVA and UAM Location Analysis. Christoph explains the significance of utilizing 5-10 years of weather data, providing UAV operators with the tools to forecast operational challenges and enhance flight safety and efficiency. With their UAM Location Analysis tool, they aid vertiport planning by offering data-driven insights that inform site selection and eVTOL performance assessments under varying weather conditions. Besides these, NOVA integrates digital twin technology to replicate and simulate drone operations. By modeling various operational scenarios, Unisphere provides UAV operators with the ability to fine-tune their missions based on comprehensive data analytics. To gain a comprehensive understanding of their work, watch the full interview!

Imagine cutting drone operation costs from $200,000 to just $20,000-$40,000! Flytbase's CEO, Nitin Gupta, reveals in an interview with Lorenzo Murzilli, CEO and Co-founder of Murzilli Consulting how their software-centric model is making advanced drone operations accessible and cost-effective. From improving site security with automated patrols to deploying rapid-response drones for public safety, Flytbase is driving a transformative wave across multiple industries. Their cutting-edge solutions are setting a new standard for operational efficiency and safety. Join us at Aerial Cities 2024 to explore how these innovations are shaping the future of urban environments. Connect with industry leaders and visionaries, and take part in paving the way for next-generation aerial cities. Register now to be part of this groundbreaking event! https://aerialcities.dronetalks.online/

When giants like Amazon and Alphabet express interest in pushing the boundaries of UAV operations, you know a revolution is underway. At the heart of this transformation is Andrew Carter, CTO of ResilienX, who shares his insights on pioneering safer, more reliable unmanned aircraft systems with DroneTalks' CEO and co-founder, Eszter Kovács. Andrew's journey from the US Army's ground-based Sense and Avoid program to founding ResilienX underscores the innovations in UAV safety and system integrity. His company leads in aviation safety management, enhancing the reliability of unmanned aircraft systems in national airspace. With increasing recognition of digital infrastructure's role in UAV operations, the sector is moving beyond overpromised capabilities to deliver safety and efficiency. This maturation signals a shift in perception among governments and regulatory bodies, now more willing to invest in and adopt UAV technology. Want to learn more about transforming UAV operations with ResilienX? Watch our full interview with Andrew!

Drones struggling with external disturbances? Not anymore, thanks to Fusion Reflex, expertly crafted by FusionEngineering Robert Crone, CEO of the company introduces their breakthrough in drone flight control technology. Developed from advanced research at TU Delft, this system is specifically engineered to address the challenge of maintaining flight stability in the face of sudden gusts and turbulent weather. This means smoother flights and precise control in conditions that would ground other drones. A key milestone on Fusion Engineering's horizon is obtaining SIL 4 certification for the Fusion Reflex system, which underscores the company's commitment to meeting the highest safety and reliability standards, paving the way for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights over urban areas - a transformative development for the drone industry. Dive deeper into their innovative journey and strategic vision for the future of drone technology in our latest interview!

Drones struggling with external disturbances? Not anymore, thanks to Fusion Reflex, expertly crafted by FusionEngineering Robert Crone, CEO of the company introduces their breakthrough in drone flight control technology. Developed from advanced research at TU Delft, this system is specifically engineered to address the challenge of maintaining flight stability in the face of sudden gusts and turbulent weather. This means smoother flights and precise control in conditions that would ground other drones. A key milestone on Fusion Engineering's horizon is obtaining SIL 4 certification for the Fusion Reflex system, which underscores the company's commitment to meeting the highest safety and reliability standards, paving the way for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights over urban areas - a transformative development for the drone industry. Dive deeper into their innovative journey and strategic vision for the future of drone technology in our latest interview!

Explore the cutting-edge world of autonomous drone technology in this exclusive interview with Shay Levy, CEO of FlightOps, a leading innovator in drone flight management. Discover how FlightOps is making strides in the drone logistics industry by automating flight processes from end to end, enabling operations beyond visual line of sight with 5G networks. Shay shares insights into the company's focus on logistics, first response, and inspection verticals, revealing the potential for building a myriad of applications on top of the FlightOps platform. This interview provides a deep dive into how FlightOps's mature, commercially operated platform is a critical factor in scaling operations and achieving industry success. Whether you're a professional in the drone industry or simply fascinated by drone technology, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in scaling drone operations and the future of autonomous flight

We caught up with Jordi Salvador Bernadi, who has recently assumed the role of CEO at BCN Drone Center, after almost 10 years as CTO! Jordi told us about the BCN Drone Center's new initiatives to engage end users with the full chain of systems involved in deploying a drone solution, as well as whether we need higher levels of drone autonomy to create revenue in the industry. During the interview, Jordi and Eszter also discussed their collaboration to bring a hands-on approach to regulatory and SORA training, with DroneTalks' 5-day training retreat at the BCN Drone Center, which returns this June following the success of last year. To find out more about our 5-day Regulatory and SORA Training in collaboration with BCN Drone Center visit https://dronetalks.online/academy/uas-regulatory-and-sora-training/

What can we do from a city's perspective to enable drone operations in urban environments? That's one of the topics covered in this session from Aerial Cities 2023. Moderated by Vassilis Agouridas, Leader of the UIC2, UAM Initiatives Cities Community (EU Civitas), this session focuses on the perspective of cities and aerial visions. Vassilis was joined by Pedro Fernandez, Head of Internation Mobility and Environment Projects at the Madrid City Council, Borja Blond Arroyabe, Director of Advanced Air Mobility at Neom, Jacek Woznikowski, Director of the Department of Social and Economic Development and Cooperation at GZM, and Dr. Astrid Szog, Cluster Manager at Regionalmanagement Nordhessen GmbH.

Ready for the biggest roadblocks, lessons learnt and latest expert insights on drone operations in aerial cities? Lorenzo Murzilli, CEO and Co-Founder of Murzilli Consulting moderated this unmissable panel with regulators from Austria, Ireland and Malta at Aerial Cities 2023. The session covers everything from the proof of concept phase, to the significations of Light UAS Operator Certificates (LUCs) to how to improve airspace access for drone operators, as well as cities' roles in shaping drone operations. Lorenzo was joined by Dominik Janisch, UTM Coordinator, Austro Control, Enda Walsh, UAS Manager at Irish Aviation Authority, Dr. Analiza Abdilla, Inspector at the Civil Aviation Authority in Malta and Justin Steinke, Senior Vice President Commercial Business, Spright.

“If you don't break that nexus between aviation and airports, this industry is never going to fly.” Are you ready for another Aerial Cities panel? In this panel, our experts cover everything relating to eVTOL and vertiports. Moderated by Richard Boden, Director of Business Unit at Murzilli Consulting, this session dives into how the industry can make eVTOL services accessible in terms of cost, and where the demand really is for eVTOL and vertiports. The panellist also touched upon security for vertiports and how it needs to distinguish itself from traditional aviation-style security in order to thrive. Richard was joined by Clem Newton-Brown, CEO and Founder at Skyportz, Juliana Kiraly, Senior Head of Business Development (Europe) at Eve Air Mobility, Brad Miller, Managing Director at Ferrovial Airports and Christopher Selig, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder at Unisphere.

“Now there is no police operation in Catalonia without drones” Fascinating insights from the "Policing Aerial Cities" panel at Aerial Cities 2023! Eszter Kovacs CEO of DroneTalks was joined by Joan Xiberta, Police Officer at the Mossos d'Esquadra and Thomas Neubauer, CEO and Co-Founder of Dimetor. Joan shared Mossos d'Esquadra's success with their drone unit in Barcelona, consisting of 12 police officers, emphasizing its growth and impact on operations. Joan also addresses current challenges as a drone user and what barriers need to be addressed. The panel also discussed the importance of upgrading digital infrastructure, and how cellular interference continues to be a challenge for drone operations, particularly in larger, densely populated cities and the future of drone operations in law enforcement. Thomas discusses ground risk for drones and how cellular connectivity allows law enforcement to monitor people's movement.

“Governments need to decide who to listen to first. Do that task for them: prioritise your ideas and your needs” National, regional and local governments are playing a vital role in making aerial cities a reality. At Aerial Cities 2023 Lorenzo Murzilli, CEO of Murzilli Consulting moderated this fascinating panel on the roles and responsibilities of national, regional and local governments regarding the management of aerial cities Lorenzo was joined by Darryl Abelscroft, Deputy Director for Future Aviation at the UK Department for Transport; Eileen Quinlivan, Assistant Chief Executive at Dublin City Council; Dr Sebastian Friess, President of Bern Economic Development Agency; Marcel Kägi, Director of Aviation Policy and Strategy Division at the Federal Office of Civil Aviation Switzerland; and, Giovanni Di Antonio, Aerospace Director at the Italian Civil Aviation Authority. The panel assess the current state of the industry on every level, from international to city level, and outlines not only the key challenges governments face but also offers advice to drone companies and industry stakeholders on what actions they can take to speed up the regulatory process.

“If you want to make a reliable product, you really need to test it, you need to validate it all the way down to the component level.” James McClearen, CTO of Blueflite, sat down with Lorenzo Murzilli, co-founder of DroneTalks and Murzilli Consulting at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas. Blueflite designs and manufactures advanced drone systems and software for an integrated approach to cargo delivery. In 2023, they were the winners of the GENIUS NY grand prize. James and Lorenzo discuss how Blueflite has developed their product by studying their customer demand, how flexibility plays a huge part in Blueflite's drone configuration, as well as their predictions on the future of the drone industry.

“The big thing is the time to commercialise. I think our industry is waiting for a magic moment. The moment is actually now.” Dario Di Martino, CEO and founder of DMD Solutions Consulting moderated the fascinating Revenue and Investments Panel, at Aerial Cities 2023. As advanced air mobility and drone companies mature and begin to scale, a knowledge gap within the industry has become apparent around revenue generation and investment. Dario was joined by Eric Brock, CEO of Ondas Holdings, Tim Shattock, Aviation Advisor at Irelandia Aviation, Marcus Rowley, VP Portfolio Development at Falko Regional Aircraft and Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace Corp. The panel discussed one of the biggest questions within the drone and UAV industry - how can money be made, and where money can be found for organisations within the sector?

Ron van de Leigraaf, Chair of the RPAS Panel at the ICAO, brought us up to date on the latest aviation regulations for drones at Amsterdam Drone Week. As Chair of the RPAS Panel, Ron is responsible for overseeing the changes relating to international aviation and the inclusion of drone operations. They've been working to develop airspace standards that will also allow drones to enter international airspace, which will go into effect in 2026. In this interview, he talks about these regulations, how ICAO works with international governments… and what they're working on now.

“We are building a new aircraft for critical cargo transport. A VTOL aircraft, a tilt-wing that can carry 40 kilos of payload over 400 kilometres.” At the recent Aerial Cities 2023, we sat down with Jasmine Kent, CTO and Co-Founder of Dufour Aerospace, to understand more about their new aircraft, Aero2 and Aero3. Dufour Aerospace's new VTOL aircraft focus on the tilt-wing principle, enabling them to take off and land in small spaces, but fly with the speed and efficiency of an airplane, making the aircraft ideal for critical cargo transport, patient transportation and emergency intervention. Jasmine also explained to us the strategic advantages of operating in Switzerland, and the Swiss quality of products. Also, with such a high quality of life, the company believes Switzerland is the ideal location to attract world-class aviation talent, while also allowing the team to strike a work-life balance.

“Our drone delivery airline flies more than any of the commercial airlines in the country of Ecuador.” Eszter Kovács, CEO of DroneTalks, interviewed Santiago Barrera, COO at Aerialoop, at the 2023 Commercial UAV show in Las Vegas, about the team's drone solution success in Latin America. Aerialoop has created the first urban drone delivery service with official permits in Latin America, also becoming the biggest commercial air operator in Ecuador. Santiago explained how Aerialoop's extensive number of flying hours and stress testing of operations is what sets them apart as a drone solution.

‘How do we make sure when a woman reads a job description that they don't feel like it's tailored to a man?' Irina Statch and Mariah Murray sat down with DroneTalks co-founder Eszter Kovacs at the Commercial UAV show in Las Vegas to share their experience about how AVSS is playing a part in that and what should be the next steps towards an inclusive industry.

DroneTalks' Eszter Kovacs met with David Rovira, RegiTech's Chief Business Officer, at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas in September 2023. The Lausanne-based company, RigiTech, has had plenty of new developments since their last interview with DroneTalks back in 2020. David discussed the collaboration with Spright and Rigitech and what it is about RigiTech's drones that set them apart from the competition and how they are able to operate in Denmark, France, the Czech Republic, Switzerland and Uruguay. From one Swiss company to the other, Eszter and David discussed the benefits of running a Swiss enterprise and what it means both for clients and business owners in the drone industry. One of today's most popular topics for UAS manufacturers is how to excel in the market. David shared his tricks of the trade and how RigiTech managed to grow its revenue so rapidly.

“We're proud to be the first oil and gas company to utilise the BVLOS drone services and fly remotely piloted drones in Arkansas from our Nashville center”. Eszter Kovacs, CEO of DroneTalks, interviewed Ido Biger, the CIO and Data Officer DelekUS, at the 2023 Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas about the oil and gas user perspective of drone services. Delek US, a Fortune 500 downstream energy company, had an industry first on 1 August 2023. Using the Percepto True BVLOS waiver, the oil and gas company became the first to launch a US operations flight using Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) in a refinery. Eszter spoke with Ido about Delek US's journey to reach this milestone, including their procurement of the FAA US waiver and how they adapted their company's inner infrastructure to include the use of drones.

Co-founder of DroneTalks Lorenzo Murzilli interviewed ModalAI's Co-founder and CEO Chad Sweet at the 2023 Commercial UAV Show, in Las Vegas ModalAI, the San Diego-based company was spun out of Qualcomm in 2018 and specialises in research and development in drones and robotics. Lorenzo caught up with Chad to ask him about the latest developments from ModalAI, including information on their smallest drone to date, their open architecture software and what we can expect in the future of drone technology.

“Don't look for anybody to invite you because nobody's going to give you a piece of the table. I like to say I go about with a collapsible stool and I just put it on that table.” Our recent interview with Charlotte Essiet, the CEO and Managing Director at Elint Systems, has helped us understand more about the growing drone industry in Nigeria. With the largest population in Africa, Nigeria is a market of 220 million people, which is a bit more than the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy combined. Charlotte explained during the interview that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority's openness to drone operations and support for the growth of the industry shows that there is huge potential for companies looking to start operations there.

Cyber threats are also more common than ever, and it's no longer a question of if an organisation will fall victim to one, but when that threat will turn into a successful cyber attack. We've had the opportunity to speak with Matthias Gronstedt, CEO of HHLA Sky, the first commercial drone technology solutions provider to receive a cybersecurity certification. In our interview, Matthias explains why cybersecurity is more important than ever for both the drone industry and its customers, how his background taught him the importance of these measures and what happens when companies don't focus on cybersecurity from the start.

“We have robotic arms that can swap batteries and swap payloads autonomously. So what that means is we can be available for an airborne operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week”. Eszter Kovács the CEO of DroneTalks spoke to Eric Brocks, the CEO of Ondas Holdings at the 2023 Las Vegas Commercial UAV Show. Ondas Holdings is a NASDAQ finance company and a leading technology platform provider that digitises industrial and government operations with their two autonomous drone platform enterprises: Airobotics, based in Israel and Amercian Robotics, based in the USA. Eszter met with Eric to discuss his predictions on the revenue of the drone industry within the next 5 years and what makes Ondas drone technology solutions one of the most reliable on the market.

“We now have invested more than $18 million into 32 companies that span across eight countries. And, we are truly one of the largest accelerator programmes in the world.” Join us as we speak with Kara Jones, the Director of GENIUS NY, as she explains what the GENIUS NY programme entails and which organisations are eligible to apply. Previous winners include Wonder Robotics, Fotokite, Airtonomy, AVSS, ResilienX and more! GENIUS NY was founded in 2017 after New York State recognised the need to support the emerging drone sector. To date, they're one of the largest accelerator programmes in the world.

When asked about how FlyBy Guys managed to grow sustainably without external investors, CEO Stephen Sutton, explained, “That's something which I think is very important for the industry, knowing that you can survive, that you can pay salaries, that you can pay for your office and not really have to worry.” In our latest interview, we learned more about Flyby Guys, primarily known for their large drone light shows, but have a more industrial-focused business model for aerial data capture. While drone light shows require a lot of work to put together, Stephen said they're a passion project and a source of satisfaction for the team. He added that the shows also have the additional benefit of increasing the public acceptance of drone technology in the communities where these shows take place. Flyby Guys began hosting drone light shows in December 2020, and has since performed over 200 flights, with the number of drones deployed in each show reaching up to 1,500.

In 2015, maxon Group began receiving requests to create aviation products that hadn't yet been developed. It was through these challenging requests that their team began, in the Swiss valley of Obwalden, to prepare for the future engineering demands of the advanced aviation industry. Roger Villiger, the Head of the Aerospace Business Unit, Roman Meier, the Project Manager for Aerospace and Marco Sicher, the Business Development Engineer for the Aerospace from maxon tell us how one of the oldest and most reliable motor companies in the world began developing specialised products for the drone market. DroneTalks Group is a collection of services and platforms dedicated to uplifting the drone ecosystem. That includes our main educational platform DroneTalks as well as specialised trainings for drone industry professionals, the event Aerial Cities for industry stakeholders (both private and government) and the job portal DroneTalks Jobs for professionals.  For more information on drone-related services, including marketing and PR, please contact us at info@dronetalks.ch. Our partners at Murzilli Consulting also offer an outsourced strategic regulatory department for drone organisations as well, for more in-depth guidance.

“We are not looking for the next cool pilot, but we want to take another approach and plan the lower airspace together with the municipalities in the region and the companies to have a solid and sustainable regional development”, explained Dino Keljalic, the Infrastructure & Transport Strategist for Region Örebro Iäm (Mälardalsrådet). During our interview, he introduced us to one of Sweden's most well-connected transportation and logistics locations and explained what they're doing to develop and build drone operations with private and public stakeholders. DroneTalks Group is a collection of services and platforms dedicated to uplifting the drone ecosystem. That includes our main educational platform DroneTalks as well as specialised trainings for drone industry professionals, the event Aerial Cities for industry stakeholders (both private and government) and the job portal DroneTalks Jobs for professionals.  For more information on drone-related services, including marketing and PR, please contact us at info@dronetalks.ch. Our partners at Murzilli Consulting also offer an outsourced strategic regulatory department for drone organisations as well, for more in-depth guidance.

“No one wants to invest in a business that does a million deliveries a day if you lose money in every delivery. So, we need to get to rational businesses that are always investable. So, that's why our focus is on generating a profit on our operation”, explains Bobby Healy, the CEO and Founder of Manna Drone Delivery in our latest interview. If drone organisations can start to generate profit in one location, they can use those same processes to scale operations in other areas as well, which can bring investment into their businesses during this economic downturn. DroneTalks Group is a collection of services and platforms dedicated to uplifting the drone ecosystem. That includes our main educational platform DroneTalks as well as specialised trainings for drone industry professionals, the event Aerial Cities for industry stakeholders (both private and government) and the job portal DroneTalks Jobs for professionals.  For more information on drone-related services, including marketing and PR, please contact us at info@dronetalks.ch. Our partners at Murzilli Consulting also offer an outsourced strategic regulatory department for drone organisations as well, for more in-depth guidance.

The advanced air mobility industry is on track to become an entirely new ecosystem within society that will shape a wave of unparalleled innovation during our lifetimes. It will change how we produce our food, how our blue light forces respond to emergencies and how hospitals receive life-saving materials. Still, the drone industry, although relatively young, is overwhelmingly male-dominated. Yet, we see courageous women breaking through the glass ceiling and taking on critical roles as leaders shaping this new industry. That's why DroneTalks began hosting the event series “Women behind the Drone Revolution”, which features a series of talks with female leaders working to co-create the advanced air mobility industry. The event series aims to showcase examples of exceptional leadership and encourage young women to enter into an exciting yet sometimes intimidating industry. It also allows current leaders to learn how to hire more women and create more diverse work environments where everyone can succeed and feel welcome. Finally, this series also features some entertaining stories from the lives of women in leadership positions who share unique stories about what it feels like to work with drones. DroneTalks Group is a collection of services and platforms dedicated to uplifting the drone ecosystem. That includes our main educational platform DroneTalks as well as specialised trainings for drone industry professionals, the event Aerial Cities for industry stakeholders (both private and government) and the job portal DroneTalks Jobs for professionals. For more information on drone-related services, including marketing and PR, please contact us at info@dronetalks.ch. Our partners at Murzilli Consulting also offer an outsourced strategic regulatory department for drone organisations as well, for more in-depth guidance.