Published Monday, 6 October 2025

MidlandPort has begun using a drone to perform a detailed review of container roofs, looking for damage or corrosion that could lead to leaks in the roof structure.

Using a drone instead of climbing a ladder was introduced a few weeks ago. It follows the completion of the SWMS and adding a section to the LPC UAV Procedure.

Head of Procurement, Richard Cookson, who is the LPC flight instructor, says the idea was inspired by Dan Johnson’s observation that Container Surveyors were climbing a mobile set of stairs to inspect the tops of recently returned containers.

“The drone captures high-resolution images for customers, eliminating the need for working at heights and permits,” said Richard.

“Selecting a UAV that met size constraints, portability, and battery longevity was required, and it coincided with a new release from UAV manufacturer DJI,” added Richard.

The selected drone, a DJI Flip, is easy to use, has a tight-space operating design, stable camera gimbal, and takes very good images.

Photos and video from the onboard camera are captured and used to inform the container-owning shipping line or leasing company of any damage and provide an estimate for container repair services.

Three staff at MidlandPort are trained as drone operators, with three more in training.

In the future, the drone will be able to help the team with yard and stack inspections following high wind events.