Antwerp Supports Drone Deployment for Inspections in Complex Urban Environments
Antwerp-based drone company SkyeBase is working on an innovative system for autonomous inspection flights in urban environments. Thanks to financial support from the City of Antwerp’s innovation call, the company is developing a solution that automatically inspects buildings and infrastructure—even under challenging conditions. Inspection data is transmitted via 5G in real time to existing asset management systems.
Fully Automated Inspections
While drones have been used for inspection tasks for some time, most current applications still require manual control. Urban areas, with limited GPS coverage and ever-changing obstacles, pose additional challenges. SkyeBase is now addressing these issues with a system tailored to complex urban scenarios. The drones dynamically adjust their flight paths based on environmental sensor data, detect defects autonomously using cloud-based AI analysis (via 5G), and link the results directly to asset management platforms.
According to SkyeBase COO Bart Daniels, this marks a major step toward fully autonomous inspections: “Thanks to the support from the City of Antwerp, we’re able to accelerate technological innovation and apply it in real-world contexts.”
More Efficient, Safer, and More Reliable
The new approach allows inspections to be carried out faster, more frequently, and with reduced risk. Inspectors no longer need to physically access rooftops or hazardous areas, significantly improving safety. At the same time, automated data processing speeds up the entire workflow. The use of orthophotos, 3D models, and thermography ensures highly accurate measurements, enabling precise tracking of damage progression over time.
With this project, Antwerp further strengthens its position as a pioneer in smart urban technology. According to alderman for Economy Johan Klaps, the initiative highlights how technology can contribute to a safer and more sustainable city: “By supporting trailblazers like SkyeBase, we’re building an ecosystem where innovation serves both our climate goals and everyday urban life.”
