Elsight, a provider of connectivity solutions for autonomous and unmanned systems, played a key role in a pipeline patrol mission by Phoenix Air Unmanned (PAU).
The operation successfully completed a 320-mile aerial pipeline inspection in just 7.6 hours using a single Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for Shell Pipeline Company (SPLC).
This achievement was powered by Elsight’s Halo, an advanced communications platform designed for beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations. The lightweight system delivers seamless command and control (C2) connectivity by intelligently merging multiple IP links—including public and private cellular networks, satellite, and RF—ensuring robust and uninterrupted data transmission in any environment.
From emergency response and security monitoring to logistics and long-range infrastructure inspections like PAU’s pipeline survey, UAVs equipped with Elsight Halo maintain continuous, secure transmission of video, telemetry, and operational data.
For this mission, PAU deployed the Event 38 E455, a fixed-wing, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) UAS, to conduct 16 BVLOS flights. The aircraft carried a high-resolution camera for live-streamed visuals, covering 332.4 miles over 7.72 flight hours. Data was delivered in real time to SPLC inspectors while also being archived for future analysis.
Will Wheeler, Director of Operations at Phoenix Air Unmanned, said, “We saw the difference in our results when using the Elsight Halo for continuous connectivity in the level of precise data we could collect, the distance flown, and in the value of remotely controlling the UAV from an offsite location.
“When connectivity is that robust, it becomes a foundation enabling regulatory approvals and significantly scaling our operations.”
Yoav Amitai, CEO of Elsight, added, “Elsight has developed extremely innovative wireless dispersion capabilities to prevent a single point of failure and ensuring mission continuity over difficult terrains and challenging circumstances.
“We are very pleased to work with these leading UAV manufacturers and operators in the U.S. succeeding in applications that contribute both to society and to the advancement of the UAV industry.”
