Marina de Lagos in Portugal has implemented Altitude Angel's Approval Services platform to manage drone operations within the marina digitally.
The system allows drone operators and future eVTOL pilots to request and pay for operations within the marina through a digital platform. Operators can submit flight plans involving takeoffs and landings within the marina while facilitating any charges when flights are approved.
Drone operators can request access digitally via the Drone Assist app or DroneSafetyMap.com, with some instances providing near-instant approval. The platform is already deployed across the UK at airports, heliports, aerodromes and large private estates.
Marina de Lagos, with over 470 berths, is one of Portugal's busiest marinas. Current drone operations are predominantly recreational, with operators filming and photographing their boats. The marina plans to introduce additional services including shore-to-ship deliveries using drones.
The Approval Services implementation will provide the marina with greater understanding of airspace usage above and around the facility. This represents the first such deployment at a Portuguese marina.
"As drones are being used more frequently, either recreationally or by businesses to provide additional services, the need for a greater understanding of shared airspace grows," said Chris Forster, chief operating officer at Altitude Angel. "The introduction of Approval Services will give Marina de Lagos the understanding and clarity they need to manage drone operations around the marina safely and securely."
Martinho Fortunato, CEO of Marina de Lagos, said: "We are always looking at ways we can improve the safety and comfort of our clients as well as the quality of our services and innovation. Partnering with Altitude Angel to develop airspace controls over and around a marina, the first in Portugal to do so, is something we're excited to be introducing."
The platform provides marina management with comprehensive oversight of drone activity while enabling operators to access services efficiently. Marina de Lagos plans to share experiences with the wider marina community in coming months.
Altitude Angel specializes in Unified Traffic Management technology for drone and future urban air mobility operations.