Monitoring the safety and security of the Port of South Louisiana’s vast jurisdiction, including its 335-acre maritime industrial park, Globalplex, is no small task.
As a world-class public terminal, Globalplex manages the distribution, storage, and logistics of large volumes of bulk, breakbulk, and containerized cargo across various transport methods, including vessel, barge, truck, and rail. This complex operation requires state-of-the-art technology to support effective port management.
To enhance safety and surveillance capabilities, the Port of South Louisiana recently launched a drone safety and security program, acquiring two drones to augment existing security measures. This technology will play a key role in improving surveillance across the port’s jurisdiction, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods.
A New Era in Port Surveillance
“The addition of drones is invaluable for the Port of South Louisiana, enabling us to monitor extensive areas, assess infrastructure in real-time, and enhance our security protocols,” said Paul Matthews, Chief Executive Officer. “With drones, we can operate safely and effectively across our jurisdiction, adapting quickly to various security needs.”
As the largest port in Louisiana, the Port of South Louisiana faces unique challenges when ensuring safety across its entire facility. While cameras and other surveillance equipment help security personnel, their fixed positions limit their effectiveness. Drones, however, can complement these efforts by patrolling large areas, capturing aerial footage, and securing perimeters. Programmed for continuous surveillance, drones can rapidly increase situational awareness, providing security teams with the information needed to make informed decisions quickly and safely.
The Port of South Louisiana is the first in the state to establish a drone program, including an autonomous drone for automated monitoring. This drone will handle daily surveillance remotely, streaming real-time footage directly to security personnel, while the second drone is designated for use in security or emergency situations, available on the Port’s 24/7 emergency response vessel.
Enhancing Safety with Real-Time Data
The benefits of the Port’s drone program are extensive. During safety or security incidents, drones can act as first responders, arriving at the scene before personnel to provide valuable initial assessments. With their ability to access challenging locations and high-risk areas, drones can identify potential hazards quickly, enabling immediate action and safeguarding human lives.
Equipped with pre-programmed flight paths, the drones are designed to monitor specific areas and can be deployed across the entire jurisdiction as needed. The aerial footage they capture helps security personnel tailor their responses more effectively, reducing response times and improving safety.
High-Tech Training and Certification
To ensure the responsible use of these new tools, the Port of South Louisiana has implemented rigorous training for its personnel. Employees across various departments, including marine operations, security, maintenance, and business development, are preparing to earn their Unmanned Aircraft General (UAG) Remote Pilot Certificate by passing the FAA’s aeronautical knowledge test.
Alex Hernández, the Port’s Public Information Officer, is one of the employees earning certification. “My role at the Port includes marketing, graphic design, and photography, so learning to operate drones aligns perfectly with my responsibilities. It’s something I’ve been looking forward to,” said Hernández.
To maintain certification, UAG holders must complete ongoing training every 24 months, ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and U.S. Coast Guard standards. This continuous education will reinforce safe, skilled operation of drones in alignment with port security requirements.
Funding and Future of the Drone Program
Given that maritime shipping remains a primary mode for global trade, with projections indicating that up to three-quarters of goods will move by ship in the coming year, FEMA has allocated funding through its Port Security Grant Program to support initiatives like this. The Port of South Louisiana’s drone program is an example of a security enhancement made possible by this grant, which underscores the critical role that safe and efficient port operations play in national and economic security.
