ClassNK certifies drone for maritime operations

Japanese classification society ClassNK has granted its innovation-endorsement certification to Flyability for its Elios 3 drone for use in marine applications such as ultrasonic thickness measurement and visual inspections.

Flyability’s Elios 3 is the first drone to be awarded this certification, which assures its safety and environmental protection for use on maritime vessels.

“The Elios 3 and its ultrasonic thickness measurement payload is setting a new standard in the maritime sector,” said Flyability manager in Japan, Wataru Wakatsuki. “The innovation-endorsement certification from ClassNK not only validates its safety, reliability and regulatory compliance, but also highlights the transformative role of drones in enhancing inspection capabilities and improving safety in confined spaces.”

ClassNK’s certification demonstrates that regulatory bodies are recognising this remote inspection technology as a tried and tested solution, while removing the need for manned inspections and testing.

Flyability said Elios 3 UT has been used to measure thickness and to inspect ballast water and cargo oil tanks.

It won Riviera’s OSJ Safety Award 2025, sponsored by Vroon Offshore Services, for conducting close-up, systematic vessel visual inspections, using a computer and LiDAR mapping.