16/03/2026
In early January 2026, Integrated Aerial Systems in partnership with RED Creative Collaboration and coordinated by Rieghard Janse Van Rensburg, assisted Kouga Local Municipality (KLM) and the teams fighting fires across the Kouga region by providing live aerial monitoring.
This is an example of how aerial data was used on the ground.
All flights were conducted in coordination with the Joint Operations Centre and under the direction of the Acting Municipal Manager. Our pilots worked closely with ground crews and controllers to maintain clear communication between all teams involved in the response.
Drone deployments allowed rapid checks for flare-ups in areas where fires appeared contained. This helped ensure limited firefighting resources were directed only where there was a confirmed risk.
In several cases, aerial views showed fires burning back into already burnt areas, confirming that no further action was required.
With wind direction changing frequently, aerial footage also helped teams understand what lay ahead of the fire line in near real time. Immediate delivery of imagery to decision-makers supported faster and more informed operational decisions.
Used correctly and in accordance with South African Civil Aviation Authority regulations, drones can make a measurable contribution to wildfire response.
There have been past incidents where uncoordinated or illegal drone activity forced water bombers and helicopters to stand down. This is why licensed operations matter.
Licensed drone operators are able to:
- Work directly with the JOC
- Coordinate with ground teams
- Monitor air-band frequencies
- Communicate with manned aircraft when required
In high-risk environments, compliance, communication, and discipline are essential to protecting crews, aircraft, and the communities they serve.
