2025 Insights from Africa
In 2025, Sky-Futures significantly expanded operations across East, Central and West Africa, delivering advanced drone services in Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, Mozambique and the Republic of Congo. Operating across diverse environments – from onshore gas terminals to FPSOs – our teams demonstrated strong technical capability, adaptability and sector-leading expertise. We provided gas emission detection, quantification, and precision visual inspections, delivering tailored, actionable insights to support each client’s operational and environmental goals.
Gas Emission Detection and Quantification
Sky-Futures supported a leading energy client to identify and quantify methane emissions, delivering high-quality data to drive operational efficiency and sustainability targets. Using UAV-mounted sensors, we conducted full-site surveys and targeted inspections, detecting and quantifying methane leaks with exceptional accuracy. Our drones provided access to otherwise unreachable areas, cutting inspection times and reducing exposure risk for personnel.
By flying strategically downwind of assets, we pinpointed elevated methane concentrations in real time. Live data was displayed through our ground control station, allowing immediate analysis and rapid operational decision-making. When emissions were detected, our teams flew follow-up routes to localise and quantify leaks with precision.
We delivered clear reports highlighting leak points and faulty components. These enabled the client to take targeted remedial action, optimise production processes, and strengthen safety protocols – all while progressing environmental commitments.
Visual Inspection of FPSO Flare Tip in Mozambique
Sky-Futures conducted a detailed visual inspection of a 152-metre flare structure on an FPSO offshore Mozambique. The work confirmed the structural integrity of the flare tip and vents, supporting safe and efficient operations.
This followed an earlier campaign which had flagged visible corrosion and maintenance priorities. In 2024, our updated inspection revealed further critical findings:
Missing or damaged safety equipment
Heat impingement damage
Multiple areas of corrosion
Potential dropped objects on the flare platform
These findings informed a revised monitoring strategy and helped the client shape a proactive maintenance plan, reducing future risk and supporting long-term asset integrity.
Orthomosaic Mapping for Smarter Asset Management
Orthomosaic maps are highly detailed images that have been geometrically corrected to eliminate distortion caused by terrain and camera angle. They show real-world locations with full spatial accuracy.
Why It Matters
- Complete Site Visibility – Capture full asset layouts with crystal-clear visuals
- Informed Decision-Making – Use accurate imagery to prioritise maintenance and optimise layouts
- Ongoing Monitoring – Track changes over time and spot emerging issues before they escalate
How We Deliver Value
Using specialist UAV platforms, Sky-Futures captures and processes orthomosaic imagery tailored to each client’s asset. These maps provide visual clarity, support better site planning, and enhance long-term environmental management strategies.
Summary
Sky-Futures continues to raise the bar for inspection and intelligence-led drone services across Africa. Our commitment to safety, efficiency and sustainability underpins every operation. As we grow, we are building a strong regional footprint to support local delivery, strengthen partnerships, and drive cost-effective, high-impact solutions for our clients.
