DronePort Rotterdam originated as a concept between Arthur Dallau and Niels Kalshoven, both active in the field of Innovative Air Mobility and frequently approached with questions regarding the organisation and integration of drones into existing systems. While exploring the challenges of everyday scenarios, it quickly became apparent to both gentlemen that there was a lack of an overarching strategy that addressed this complexity. A strategy was needed that encompassed the entire mobility ecosystem and all its layers to strengthen the system.
By mapping out the various components, the concept of vertical integration, one of the pillars of DronePort, was soon realised. Collaborating with a multitude of stakeholders highlighted the critical need for developing solutions for the port, city, and airport. In the Rotterdam region, it is vital that these hubs collaboratively develop crucial infrastructure, enabling autonomous uncrewed intelligent systems to integrate into the mobility and transport system.