SGS Samplifly, the drone logistics service from SGS for the transport of (Petro) chemical analysis samples, has extended its reach to the entire Antwerp port area. With the opening of a new drone hub at VOPAK VTLO on the Left Bank, customers can now also be served faster and more efficiently on that side of the Scheldt.
According to Kristof van Hoecke, Head of Digital, Technology & Innovation at SGS Benelux, this marks a new phase in the project. For the first time, the entire port is operated from east to west, including the crossing of the Scheldt. A drone flight takes an average of 12 minutes, which gives a considerable saving of time with regard to road transport.
The drones operate autonomously and outside the pilot’s field of vision, with a capacity of up to 15 kg and a range of 50 km. Since the launch in June 2024, more than 500 successful flights have been conducted. The system not only ensures shorter transport times, but also reduces the CO₂-Illing with 80%.
