As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on an exceptional year that saw us solidify our position in integrating telecommunications and unmanned aerial systems. From collaborations that pushed the boundaries of innovation to achievements that garnered global recognition, this year has been a journey of milestones that have paved the way for a safer, more connected future in BVLOS drone operations and urban air mobility.
A growing milestone: the AirborneRF Self-Service Portal has launched for easy connectivity data access for drone operators
In the fast-paced world of drone technology, BVLOS operations are becoming the norm, and connectivity is at the heart of their success. The AirborneRF Self-Service Portal is a game-changing tool that consolidates critical cellular and satellite network data into one intuitive platform. There are no APIs, only a web portal with easy access.
With instant access to real-time connectivity insights and ground risk assessments, drone operators can make informed decisions that improve safety and simplify flight planning. This means no more juggling between platforms or worrying about maintaining stable communications during long-distance flights – everything a drone operator needs is just a click away. The portal also supports automated compliance and flight approvals, significantly reducing operational overhead.
By automating processes like connectivity assessment, risk evaluation, and regulatory reporting, the AirborneRF Self-Service Portal takes the guesswork out of drone operations.
Driving innovation with Vodafone, Orange and Telefonica
Throughout the year, our collaborations with leading telecom operators pushed the boundaries of connectivity and revenue generation:
- With Vodafone, we powered the commercially operational DroNet solution, enabling seamless BVLOS drone operations and unlocking new business opportunities in Germany.
- In partnership with Orange Polska, we showcased the integration of connectivity and population density data at the Orange Open Tech event in Paris, demonstrating the scalability and safety of drone operations.
- At Telefonica Innovation Day 2024, We were featured in the demo zone, showcasing the integration of real-time population density data for BVLOS drone operations. This demonstration reinforced the vital role our technology plays in transforming aerial mobility. By partnering with Telefonica’s 5G Drone Program, we drive innovation in unmanned aviation and unlock new opportunities for connectivity-driven drone missions.
A new era in urban travel with Supernal S-A2 eVTOL
We began the year with a collaboration that set the tone for 2024: Our involvement together with our partner Viasat in the development of Supernal’s S-A2 eVTOL unveiled at CES 2024. This electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, aims to revolutionise urban travel.
Our advanced 4D airspace analytics supported BVLOS operations for the S-A2, leveraging real-time cellular and satellite data to enhance safety and operational efficiency. This partnership showcased how telecommunications and aviation can unite to shape the future of urban air mobility.
Open gateway market at MWC Barcelona 2024
In February, our co-founder Thomas Neubauer joined the Open Gateway Market Champions Roundtable at MWC Barcelona. His presentation explored how Telecom APIs are bridging the gap between digital airspace systems and mobile network operators, offering real-world examples from Vodafone, BT Group, and Verizon.
Thomas emphasised the immense market opportunities in supporting BVLOS operations, showing how mobile networks can evolve beyond connectivity to power advanced use cases like unmanned aviation and airspace management.
Supporting innovation at the Drone Forum 2024 in Austria
The Drone Forum 2024, hosted by Austro Control and supported by the Austrian Ministry for Climate Protection and FFG Austrian Research Promotion Agency, brought together leaders from research, industry, and emergency services to shape the future of drone integration.
Our co-founder, Thomas Neubauer, presented AirborneRF’s advanced solutions, highlighting how our platform bridges the gap between cellular connectivity and aviation systems. The event provided a dynamic space for stakeholder collaboration, fostering dialogue on regulatory and technological advancements crucial for unmanned aviation. We’re proud to contribute to these innovative initiatives, advancing the potential of drones for both healthcare and large-scale deployment in diverse sectors.
Expanding rural healthcare with the LieferMichel Project in collaboration with Vodafone.
In collaboration with WINGCOPTER, our partner Vodafone Germany, and the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, the LieferMichel project transformed rural healthcare delivery in Michelstadt. This groundbreaking initiative extends drone delivery services to include non-prescription medicines from local providers like Bären-Apotheke pharmacy.
Running through March 2024, the pilot program explored the feasibility of drone operations in unrestricted airspace and evaluated demand for drone-based deliveries in rural areas. Deliveries were carried out using drones for the primary leg and electric cargo bikes for the final stretch, underscoring a commitment to sustainable logistics.
How does the drone achieve BVLOS operations? By dynamically connecting to the Vodafone UPLIFT network, leveraging AirborneRF to ensure robust cellular connectivity and safe, reliable navigation throughout the flight.
EY Scale-Up award in spacetech and aviation
We reached a significant milestone in July when we were honoured with the EY Scale-Up of the Year Award 2024 in SpaceTech and Aviation.
This award recognised our groundbreaking work in BVLOS operations and our automated data processing platform that bridges aviation and telecommunications. It affirmed our dedication to innovation and our growing impact on global aerospace advancements.
Pioneering connectivity with AIRlabs Austria and podcast recognition
This year wouldn’t be complete without new partnerships, so with AIRlabs Austria, we assessed cellular connectivity in some of Europe’s most challenging alpine environments. The initiative set new benchmarks for BVLOS safety, with tests conducted under AIRlabs’ BVLOS Operation Authorisation. This collaboration demonstrated how real-time connectivity data and robust risk assessments are revolutionising drone operations in both rural and urban environments.
Our achievements were also celebrated on the Trending Topics podcast, where our co-founders, Thomas Neubauer and Thomas Wana, shared their journey, discussed future innovations, and reflected on receiving the EY Scale-Up Award.
Global recognition at industry events
- Paul Dolejschi, our Project and Account Manager, spoke at the Global UTM Association (GUTMA) event in Dallas about the critical role of mobile network operators (MNOs) in enabling mission-critical BVLOS infrastructure. His insights demonstrated how real-world BVLOS operations are becoming a reality thanks to robust telecom and satellite networks.
- Simultaneously, our co-founder, Thomas Neubauer, presented at DroneTalks’ invitation-only VIP conference, Aerial Cities in London, an exclusive gathering of decision-makers in urban air mobility. He highlighted how mobile networks can serve as the backbone for urban drone flights, paving the way for advanced air mobility solutions in smart cities.
- Our co-founder, Thomas Neubauer, represented AirborneRF at the EASA Innovative Air Mobility Implementation Forum, speaking on the panel “Enabling C2 Link Using Mobile Network Technology.” Key discussions centred on the importance of population density data for safe and scalable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. Thomas highlighted how solutions like AirborneRF enable real-time insights into people’s movements, supporting flight planning and regulatory compliance.
Drone integration into suburban airspace
One of the standout achievements in 2024 was our involvement in Phase 2 of Transport Canada and NAV CANADA’s RPAS Traffic Management (RTM) trials, together with our partners and Variable Pitch Inc. This collaboration marks a significant leap toward the safe and scalable integration of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) into suburban airspace, revolutionising how drones operate in real-world applications.
Our connectivity platform proved invaluable in ensuring seamless communication and real-time data flow, enabling safe navigation and accurate risk assessments for drones operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS). With applications spanning healthcare, logistics, and infrastructure inspections, this initiative showcased the transformative potential of RPAS technology. Together, we’re shaping a future where drones play a key role in creating smarter, safer skies.
AirborneRF and cellular network integration highlighted by the U.S. Department of Transportation
The recently published white paper from the U.S. Department of Transportation on Electronic Conspicuity prominently highlights AirborneRF and the transformative potential of terrestrial cellular networks in advancing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations.
Key insights include leveraging cellular networks for crucial aviation functions such as command and control (C2), electronic conspicuity, and sensor data downlinks. The paper showcases AirborneRF measurement tools, demonstrating that existing 4G networks can reliably support UAS C2 functions at operational altitudes, addressing a critical need for safe and scalable UAS integration into the airspace.
The white paper emphasises how platforms like AirborneRF provide critical tools for assessing cellular connectivity at various altitudes, bridging gaps in electronic conspicuity and detect-and-avoid capabilities. By demonstrating the feasibility of using commercial networks for UAS, AirborneRF is paving the way for more reliable and secure drone operations, contributing to the modernisation of the national airspace.
As additional tests continue under varied conditions, the potential for cellular networks to revolutionise UAS operations grows, with AirborneRF positioned as a cornerstone technology in this evolution.
Revenue opportunities: MNOs and the expanding UAS industry according to GUTMA’s latest White Paper
We are thrilled to welcome the rapid growth of the UAS industry in 2024, which is opening significant revenue opportunities for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). As Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations become the backbone of drone activities, robust air and ground connectivity are critical for command and control (C2), real-time data, and regulatory compliance.
A recent Global UTM Association (GUTMA) report highlights the rising demand for reliable MNO infrastructure from drone operators. By leveraging advanced tools like AirborneRF, MNOs can provide real-time connectivity insights, risk assessments, and flight optimisation data, driving scalability, safety, and substantial revenue growth.
Strategic Pathways for MNOs in the UAS Market:
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Providing SIM cards, C2 connectivity, and airspace data delivers immediate value.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Offering end-to-end solutions like workflow management and flight control for BVLOS operations.
- End-to-End (E2E) Solutions: Delivering comprehensive services, including airspace integration and regulatory compliance, positions MNOs as single-source partners for UAS solutions.
The UAS industry presents MNOs with a transformative opportunity to shape the future of drone operations. By stepping into this space, MNOs can drive innovation and revenue in a rapidly evolving market.
New partnership with TeleResources to pioneer aerial IoT in Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands
We are excited to announce our strategic partnership with TeleResources Engineering to bring AirborneRF’s cutting-edge drone connectivity solutions to Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands!
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in enabling BVLOS operations, unlocking new opportunities in aerial IoT and driving the integration of drones into the growing digital airspace.
With TeleResources’ deep expertise and strong partnerships with leading telcos in the region, AirborneRF’s technology will ensure safe, scalable, and compliant drone operations across industries like agriculture, logistics, and public safety.
As drone usage rapidly expands, we are proud to help bridge connectivity gaps and empower businesses to unlock the full potential of BVLOS operations.
Celebrating our partners: leading the way together in 2024
We would like to thank all our partners for their collaboration and continued support throughout 2024. We are incredibly grateful to the partners and industry-leading organisations we work with. This year has been a journey of collaboration, technological advancements, and shared success with our esteemed partners.
As we look toward 2025, we are excited to continue this innovation journey, working hand-in-hand with our partners to scale new heights, unlock new opportunities, and drive the future of connected airspace.
Thank you to all our incredible partners for a remarkable 2024 – we’re ready to soar even higher in 2025!
Reflecting on a year full of achievements
From enabling safe urban air mobility with Supernal to advancing BVLOS drone approvals with Telefonica, Orange and Vodafone Germany, as a few great examples, 2024 was a year of scaling for AirborneRF. By forging partnerships, achieving industry recognition such as the EY award, and expanding our technology capabilities, we’ve continued to shape the future of BVLOS operations and urban air mobility fuelled by satellite and cellular technologies.
As we look ahead to 2025, we remain committed to pushing boundaries, fostering innovation, and supporting the seamless integration of telecommunications and aviation. Thank you to our team, partners, and supporters for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we’re creating the skies of tomorrow.
Happy holidays and warm wishes for a prosperous New Year from all of us at AirborneRF.