Aerial Works Secures Gold BARS Registration, Reinforcing a Safety Benchmark for Drone Security Operations Across Africa

Aerial Works, a leading South African drone security operator, today announced that it has achieved Gold Status under the Basic Aviation Risk Standard (BARS) - the highest level of recognition awarded by the Flight Safety Foundation. This status confirms three consecutive years of clean, independent aviation safety audits and cements Aerial Works’ position as one of the safest and most reliable drone security providers operating on the African continent.

BARS is globally recognised across mining, energy, and high-risk sectors as the most rigorous safety standard governing remotely piloted and manned aviation operations. Gold Registration is reserved only for aviation organisations that demonstrate sustained excellence, robust systems, and evidence-driven operational discipline.

Raising the Standard in a ‘Safety-Washed’ Industry

Drone security has become a critical component of modern risk-mitigation strategies for mines, industrial facilities, and high-value assets. Yet, as the industry grows, so does “safety washing” - operators overstating their compliance while only meeting minimum regulatory requirements. Aerial Works took a different path.

By voluntarily entering the BARS programme years ago, the organisation committed to independent, international-level validation of its systems - far beyond basic compliance with national unmanned aviation regulations.

“Achieving Gold BARS Registration is not a marketing milestone; it is operational proof,” said Kim James, Director of Aerial Works. “In high-risk environments, safety cannot be promised - it must be engineered. Gold BARS confirms that our systems, our training, and our oversight are designed to perform reliably at 2am when our clients need us most.”

Gold BARS Matters to the industry

Gold BARS Registration provides critical assurance to mines and industrial operations operating in high-risk environments. These sectors require partners with proven, repeatable and independently auditable safety systems. The Gold designation signals that Aerial Works meets international aviation standards rather than the minimum thresholds typical in the drone sector. It is a clear differentiator for risk-led organisations that cannot compromise on safety, governance or operational integrity.

The achievement also confirms aviation-grade governance across all Aerial Works operations. Already authorised by the SACAA for night flights, operations in controlled airspace, over people and property, and for complex BVLOS and tactical missions, Aerial Works carries an additional independent safety framework through the BARS programme. This ensures every flight is executed under layers of accountability aligned with global aviation practice.

For clients, Gold BARS materially reduces exposure in safety-critical environments. Drone security has become a first line of defence in high-crime and high-value areas. Aerial Works has demonstrated a consistent, traceable and high-integrity operational footprint strengthened by deep management oversight. This level of reliability gives clients confidence that missions will perform under pressure.

The recognition also distinguishes Aerial Works in an increasingly crowded industry. Only a select group of operators globally attain BARS Gold. For security firms, mining houses and corporate asset-protection teams, Aerial Works’ status provides a clear competitive advantage when selecting a drone partner capable of meeting the stringent requirements of high-risk operations.

Finally, Gold BARS reflects the maturity of the drone-security market itself. What was once perceived as emerging technology is now recognised as dependable security infrastructure. Achieving Gold status signals that drone operations are ready - and able - to support national assets, strategic facilities and on-the-ground response teams with aviation-grade reliability.

Aerial Works’ Operational Discipline

Aerial Works’ operational model is founded on aviation-grade principles designed to deliver consistency, reliability and safety in every mission. The organisation’s approach combines deep management oversight, highly trained SACAA-licensed pilots, advanced thermal and optical imaging systems, and comprehensive UASOC-approved procedures supported by a strong, evidence-driven safety culture.

This disciplined framework enables Aerial Works to conduct complex security operations across the African continent. From high-risk mining environments to large industrial facilities, the company provides elevated situational awareness, real-time reporting, and a drone “airforce” that strengthens the protection of people, assets and surrounding communities.

A Commitment to a Safer Future

“This achievement reflects years of disciplined work,” said Kim James. “Gold BARS is a responsibility. It holds us accountable to the highest standard every day, every shift, and every operation.”

With the attainment of Gold BARS Registration, Aerial Works further solidifies its position as a trusted partner for mines, industrial operators and security organisations seeking reliable, effective, legally compliant and world-class airborne security solutions. The organisation will continue to lead the evolution of drone security, ensuring that safety, operational excellence and aviation-grade governance remain at the centre of every mission.

About UAV Aerial Works (Pty) Ltd

Aerial Works is a leading drone security operator. Our commitment to quality, safety and our people has driven us to the forefront of the drone industry. As pioneers in South Africa’s drone ecosystem, we provide drone operation services, we manufacture UAVs, train drone pilots and develop software for efficient, effective and safe drone operations. Our holistic approach ensures our clients have access to expert knowledge to elevate their security operations. We understand that companies and communities cannot flourish when crime wins. For this reason we fight crime by using the combination of our skills; technology, people and deep seated expertise.

Aerial Works Group Marketing contact

Jill Young

Group Marketing Lead

Marketing, Brand & Communications

Phone: +27 83 292 471