Unifly Completes Port Surveillance Demonstration with Blockchain-Backed UTM Solution as Part of Certiflight Project
Antwerp, February 14, 2025 — Unifly, a global leader in UAS Traffic Management (UTM), part of Terra Drone Corporation (“Terra Drone”), in collaboration with Sky Vision, a local drone operator, proudly announces a key milestone in the Certiflight project: the successful conclusion of the validation campaign, performing a real-time demonstration of its capabilities at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges (PoAB). This event underscores the transformative potential of cutting-edge technologies – blockchain, European Global Navigation Satellite Systems (EGNSS), and Internet of Things (IoT) in enhancing airspace safety and operational efficiency.
As one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic ports, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges served as the ideal testing ground for Certiflight’s capabilities. The Port Surveillance scenario demonstrated how UTM can benefit from the above-mentioned technologies to strengthen safety and security in complex high-traffic environments.
Sky Vision’s state-of-the-art drones, exploited the Certiflight technology in performing real-time tasks such as capturing photos and videos for infrastructure inspection and debris management.
The Open Service Navigation Message Authentication (OSNMA) feature of the Certiflight device ensured position authentication during the whole flight. While OSNMA guarantees that the location data is reliable and protected from spoofing attempts during the flight, blockchain technology makes the flight data unalterable after the flight. This allows Sky Vision to use the images taken during the exercise as proof of the inspection. Unifly’s UTM platform visualised the drone’s track via the Tracking API, allowing users to distinguish between real-time tracking data supported by an authenticated signal and data that is unauthenticated.
Unifly’s involvement in the Port Surveillance scenario underscores its dedication to advancing UTM innovation and integrating next-generation aircraft into shared complex airspace. Meanwhile, Sky Vision’s expertise in drone operations brought this vision to life, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling complex challenges.
Certiflight technology leverages advanced EGNSS algorithms and blockchain to guarantee the authenticity and integrity of flight data. This tamper-proof, legally valid system offers unprecedented transparency and accountability, preventing data manipulation and providing reliable records.
The Port Surveillance demonstration is part of Certiflight’s broader validation campaign, which includes tests across Belgium, Italy, and the Czech Republic. These demonstrations showcase the system’s interoperability with multiple U-space service providers, demonstrating its ability to meet diverse operational needs globally.
“The Certiflight demonstration at the PoAB is a pivotal moment for the project. It exemplifies how blockchain-backed UTM solutions can enhance safety, transparency, and accountability in complex environments. We’re proud to contribute to the future of autonomous aviation.”
By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with operational expertise, Certiflight sets a new benchmark for drone-enabled surveillance. Its capabilities pave the way for broader applications in ports, urban air mobility, and beyond.
About Unifly
Unifly is at the forefront of aviation technology, driving innovation in Unmanned Traffic Management. Its platform facilitates the safe integration of drones, Urban Air Mobility (UAM), and other advanced aircraft into shared airspace. With a proven track record of successful UTM deployments, Unifly remains dedicated to enhancing airspace safety and shaping the future of aviation.
This project has been funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the Certiflight consortium only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EUSPA, the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (the ‘granting authority’). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
HORIZON-EUSPA-2021-SPACE No. 101082484
For more information about Certiflight and Unifly’s role in advancing UTM technology, visit https://certiflight.info or contact us at press@unifly.aero.
