Drone training solutions to IRM industry

UAV-Air is a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Nationally Qualified Entity (NQE), while Rigg-Access operates a website for Industrial Rope Access within the Inspection, Repair and Maintenance industry (IRM). Together, the teams will collaborate in order to deliver a specialist drone training experience which covers everything from unmanned aerial qualifications to bespoke courses designed to train existing specialist surveyors.

The new courses will be available in locations across the country, including Uttoxeter, Perth, Newbury, Exeter and Chepstow, with more locations to be added throughout 2016. Before the partnership was cemented, 7-20kg SUAs (small unmanned aircraft) in the UK were predominantly used by hobbyists or companies operating in small niche markets. However, the new engagement with Rigg-Access will throw open UAV-Air’s training courses to thousands of international IRM companies, who can now train their own personnel to operate UAVs and drones.

John Gore, Business Development Manager of UAV-Air, commented: “UAV-Air are delighted to be joining forces with Rigg-Access, opening up our specialist drone training experience to the IRM industry. Rigg-Access is the world’s premier website for IRM operators, and has a long standing lead in the publishing market. This exciting new joint venture will bring together over 40 years of manned flying and eight years of unmanned flying experience, with the largest network of specialist IRM operators across the globe.

Martin Smith, Director of Rigg-Access, added: “Drones offer a real enhancement to Rope Access departments, providing a rapid means of assessment that will eventually lead to a greater volume of work for IRM companies. As an emerging technology, UAVs are likely to provider a greater platform for exposure for Industrial Rope Access, and as a consequence, a greater understanding of how both disciplines provide a significant time and cost benefit for clients when maintaining their assets and infrastructure.” Smith continued: “We’re excited to be partnering with UAV-Air, in what may provide to be a pivotal point in the development of commercial UAV application.”