Drone Firm Flylogix Secures Major Contracts to Curb Methane Emissions in the North Sea

UK-headquartered drone firm Flylogix has recently announced significant contracts with leading operators in the oil and gas industry to combat methane emissions from platforms in the North Sea. The company has secured deals with major players such as Shell, Ithaca Energy, and Equinor to monitor emissions from 16 UK oil and gas platforms and onshore terminals.

The contracts, valued in the seven figures, include a multi-year agreement with Shell for offshore and onshore assets in the North Sea, as well as the Ithaca Energy-operated Cygnus gas field, one of the largest gas-producing fields in the UK.

Flylogix utilizes long-distance “mini planes” equipped with cutting-edge technology to monitor methane emissions from its bases in Aberdeenshire and Fareham. The company is also planning to establish a permanent drone base in Scotland to support its operations.

CEO Charles Tavner expressed his enthusiasm for the new contracts, stating, “These awards demonstrate the industry’s commitment to reducing offshore emissions on the path to net zero while meeting the UK’s energy needs. Flylogix’s innovative solution provides timely data without the cost, emissions, or safety concerns associated with sending crews offshore, positioning us for growth and profitability.”

The data collected by Flylogix’s drones will assist the oil and gas sector in the UK in reducing routine flaring and venting activities that emit methane, with a target of cutting emissions by 50% by 2030. Additionally, a year-long airspace trial set to commence this summer aims to enable long-distance drones to operate more freely in North Sea airspace, facilitating mission planning and regulatory compliance.

With the upcoming CAA trial, Flylogix anticipates expanding its drone operations to support various industries, including oil and gas, defense, and renewables. Tavner emphasized the potential of this technology to revolutionize flight operations in the North Sea.

One of the assets to be monitored by Flylogix’s drones, the Cygnus gas field, is set to see an increase in ownership by Ithaca Energy pending NSTA approval. Situated in the Southern North Sea, Cygnus is a vital gas field connected to the Perenco-operated terminal at Bacton via the Esmond Transmission System pipeline.

Overall, Flylogix’s collaboration with industry leaders and its innovative drone technology showcase a commitment to reducing methane emissions and advancing sustainable practices in the oil and gas sector in the North Sea.