Class Certification for Maritime Drone Inspections with the Elios 3

How Interocean is leading the way with Class-Certified Drone inspections

At Coptrz, we’re proud to be the exclusive UK provider of the Flyability Elios series—revolutionary drones that are redefining how industrial inspections are carried out. One of our valued customers, Interocean Marine Services , has been at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging drone technology to enhance safety, efficiency, and data accuracy in maritime asset inspections.

For over 25 years, Interocean has been a key player in the maritime sector, offering professional inspection and survey services for ship owners, oil and gas companies, and port authorities. With a strong commitment to safety and operational efficiency, they have embraced cutting-edge technology to improve decision-making and reduce the risks associated with traditional inspection methods.

Advancing Maritime Inspections with the Elios 3

Interocean has been using the Elios 2 for several years, but in 2024, they made a significant upgrade to the Elios 3, along with its Ultrasonic Thickness (UT) payload. This upgrade allows them to conduct ultrasonic thickness measurements on ships and offshore structures as part of maintenance, regulatory inspections, and class society surveys—without the need for scaffolding, rope access, or MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms).

The game-changing impact of this technology was recognized on September 30, 2024, when Interocean became one of the first service providers to receive official certification from major class societies ABS and DNV for conducting ultrasonic thickness measurements using drones. This is a landmark achievement for the maritime industry, validating the Elios 3’s ability to deliver precise and reliable data that meets stringent industry standards.

Why Class Certification is a Major Milestone

Class societies like ABS and DNV set the global benchmark for assessing and certifying ships and offshore assets. For them to approve a new testing method means the technology has met rigorous standards for accuracy, reliability, and repeatability.

For Interocean, this certification means they can now integrate the Elios 3’s UT payload into their routine offshore inspections with confidence. Previously, their work required lengthy approval processes before using new inspection technologies. Now, with certification in place, they can deploy the Elios 3 immediately, significantly speeding up their workflow and offering a clear competitive advantage.

The Benefits of Using the Elios 3 for Maritime Inspections

Interocean has highlighted several key advantages of integrating the Elios 3 into their inspection processes:

1. Enhanced Safety

Traditional inspection methods often require scaffolding, rope access, or confined space entry, putting personnel at risk. The Elios 3 eliminates the need for direct human entry into hazardous environments, dramatically improving safety standards.

2. Superior Data Quality

Unlike traditional NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) methods, the Elios 3 doesn’t just provide snapshot measurements—it collects a complete visual and quantitative dataset, offering deeper insights into asset conditions.

3. Faster, More Cost-Effective Inspections

The speed at which the Elios 3 operates allows inspectors to complete surveys in a fraction of the time. This reduces disruption to operations, lowers costs for asset owners, and increases inspection frequency without additional personnel requirements.

4. LiDAR-Enhanced Accuracy

The Elios 3’s LiDAR payload enables precise localization of measurements, allowing inspectors to return to the exact same spot in future inspections. This level of repeatability is invaluable for tracking asset deterioration over time and optimizing maintenance schedules.

5. Greater Client Confidence

With class society approval, Interocean’s clients can be assured that drone-assisted inspections meet the highest industry standards. This certification sets Interocean apart from other service providers, reinforcing their reputation as leaders in remote inspection technology.

The Future of Drone-Based NDT in Maritime Inspections

With ABS and DNV certification secured, Interocean is now rolling out the Elios 3 UT payload across their offshore inspection projects. They are also pursuing additional approvals from other class societies to further expand the use of drone-based ultrasonic testing in maritime environments.

As pioneers in the use of remote inspection technology, Interocean is continuously exploring new applications for the Elios 3. Their commitment to innovation, combined with decades of industry experience, is helping to drive forward the adoption of safer, faster, and more efficient inspection methods in the maritime sector.

Coptrz: Your Exclusive Supplier of the Elios 3

At Coptrz, we are committed to equipping businesses like Interocean with the latest drone technology to transform their operations. As the exclusive UK supplier of the Flyability Elios 3, we provide comprehensive training, support, and consultancy to ensure our clients maximise the potential of drone-based inspections.

If you’re looking to enhance your inspection capabilities with class-certified drone technology, get in touch with our team today.

Ready to take your inspections to the next level?

Contact Coptrz today to learn how the Elios 3 can transform your operations.