Aerologix

Aerologix is an Australian drone technology company that provides a marketplace platform connecting drone pilots with clients requiring aerial imagery and data services. The company's core offering involves leveraging its patented Aeropath technology, which enables automated flight paths for drones to inspect complex vertical structures like telecommunication towers, buildings, and electricity infrastructure. This innovative software essentially transforms consumer drones into powerful tools for enterprise-grade inspections and asset monitoring.

Aerologix was founded in 2019 by Tom Caska, a former airline pilot, and Rakesh Routhu, an IT expert, after they met while pursuing their MBAs at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). As of May 2023, the company has over 10,000 drone pilots enlisted on its platform, who have undertaken commercial projects across various sectors, including surveying, infrastructure, renewables, telecommunications, and construction.

In November 2023, Aerologix raised USD 2 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by Nightingale Partners. The capital injection facilitated the acquisition of Brazilian mapping firm Mappa, subsequently rebranded as AerologixMaps, enabling the company to offer cloud-based mapping software as an additional service. Furthermore, Aerologix launched AerologixFly, a subscription-based mobile app that provides global access to the Aeropath technology for private and enterprise customers.

Looking ahead, Aerologix plans to introduce new real-time communication features within the next six months, such as AeroLive for live HD video streaming and AeroChat for remote pilot instructions. These additions will unlock potential use cases in search and rescue operations, disaster management, and bushfire monitoring. Additionally, the company is exploring global expansion opportunities, leveraging AerologixMaps as an entry point to understand local drone market dynamics before potentially launching its marketplace model in regions like the Americas.

Key customers and partnerships

In April 2023, Aerologix partnered with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Aviation to conduct trials for transporting high-value medical supplies across regional New South Wales, specifically targeting indigenous communities in western NSW. This collaboration aimed to leverage drones as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional light aircraft deliveries for remote areas.

The company has also secured contracts with major renewable energy companies for geospatial modeling to aid in planning and development. Additionally, Aerologix provides drone services to telecommunication companies, large infrastructure firms, and organizations in the oil and gas mining sectors.

In early 2023, Aerologix formed a partnership with Clean Up Australia, engaging its network of drone pilots to locate and document areas with hidden trash, supporting environmental cleanup efforts.