Prince Charles Talks Drones with GeoAerospace

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian M. Crosby

On March 24th, His Royal Highness, Prince Charles traveled to Ireland, where he met with experts in agricultural innovation, with representatives from Teagasc, Glanbia PLC, Bord Bia & GeoAerospace.

GeoAerospace were invited to speak to The Prince of Wales about the potential of drones in supporting efforts to combat climate change and assist in sustainable farming. The Prince has long been an outspoken environmentalist, leveraging his unique position to champion sustainability and condemn deforestation and pollution.

Accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Coveney, the Prince was introduced to GeoAerospace’s Managing Director Fearghus Foyle and Drone Services Director Fergal McCarthy. Foyle spoke to HRH about the role of the drone industry in the field of agriculture, speaking on the various sensor technologies deployed by GeoAerospace for aerial surveys and their potential to support critical monitoring and mapping of important natural resources.

With the approval of the Dept. of Justice and Garda Air Support Unit, McCarthy carried out a fully automated flight demonstration for The Prince, performing a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scan of the farm. The data was relayed to a live screen where Foyle explained the benefits of aerial technology over traditional survey methods, and from where The Prince could witness the entire flight in real time. The 3D model formed from the data collected was then displayed and shown to HRH.

“As an advocate for the environment, it was clear from speaking with him that The Prince is passionate about the application of new technologies and their role in protecting our rich and diverse landscape here in Ireland,” Foyle said following the event. “On behalf of GeoAerospace, we would like to say a special thanks to Dr. Siobhan Kavanagh (Communications and Engagement Specialist) at Teagasc for the invite to showcase GeoAerospace and the work we do. It was a unique opportunity and a privilege to be part of the event. It would not have been possible without the support of several individuals in the Irish Aviation Authority, An Garda Síochána, Dept. of Justice, British Embassy and Royal Security.”

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