RigiTech: new endeavours in France and South Korea

Transporting biological samples in healthcare logistics is a complex task that demands precise cooling control, real-time tracking and a secure chain of custody. The EASA-approved Eiger drone by Vaud-based tech startup RigiTech is specifically designed to ensure cold-chain transportation of blood and biological samples, as well as other medical products, including vaccines and medicine. Its large payload bay allows for efficient, long-distance flights, making the most of this sustainable delivery solution. 

The startup is partnering up with French drone manufacturer Delivrone, which specializes in the medical last mile drone delivery industry with drones, to spearhead Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations on delivery routes in Northern France, marking an important advancement in the healthcare logistics domain. Using RigiTech’s proprietary software, RigiCloud, Delivrone was able to launch two BVLOS routes connecting Valenciennes to Maubeuge, linking a local clinic and Maubeuge Central Hospital to Valenciennes, covering 39 km in approx. 25 minutes. This achievement signifies a big advancement in medical transportation of critical supplies during the nighttime hours. 

Transporting biological samples in healthcare logistics is a complex task that demands precise cooling control, real-time tracking and a secure chain of custody. Using RigiTech’s proprietary software, RigiCloud, Delivrone was able to launch two BVLOS routes connecting Valenciennes to Maubeuge, linking a local clinic and Maubeuge Central Hospital to Valenciennes, covering 39 km in approx. 25 minutes. This achievement signifies a big advancement in medical transportation of critical supplies during the nighttime hours.  

RigiCloud offers advanced features like detailed route planning, smart navigation, integrated Detect and Avoid systems and contingency measures, setting new standards for BVLOS drone deliveries. David Rovira, Chief Business Officer and Co-Founder of RigiTech expressed his excitement: “These successful BVLOS operations demonstrate our commitment to expanding innovative healthcare logistics in France, and around the world.”. New BVLOS routes will continue to enhance the swift and secure transport of medical supplies during day and nighttime.  

In another development, Skyports Drone Services, a provider and operator of eVTOL drone solutions for cargo drone deliveries, survey and monitoring, has launched a new project in partnership with RigiTech in Yeosu City, South Korea. The project, supported by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MoLIT), Korea Institute of Aviation Safety Technology (KIAST) and Yeosu City government, will focus on drone deliveries of pharmaceuticals and food in the coastal Yeosu region, connecting the Yeosu mainland with three islands to reach remote communities.  

Over five months, from June to November 2023, the partners aim to establish and demonstrate the viability, safety and benefits of drone operations, improving access for hard-to-reach island residents and connectivity for local businesses. The BVLOS service within this project will fly distances of 20-60 km. RigiTech Eiger drone system, an electric VTOL aircraft with a large volume payload, will be employed during this project, which is expected to expand in scope in phase 2, potentially making it available in more locations and on a permanent basis. 

 
(Press releases/ SR)