Fugro’s LADS technology is being deployed in New Zealand to assist in relief efforts following the damaging 7.9 magnitude earthquake near Christchurch on November 14, 2016.

At the request of the New Zealand Government, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Laser Airborne Depth Sounder (LADS) Flight is to conduct a hydrographic survey of the seafloor in the coastal margins of the north east coast of the South Island.

RAN LADS commanding officer, flight lieutenant commander, Susanna Hung, explained the mission: “We will fly over the area and collect hydrographic survey data, which will reveal what has happened below the waterline, and identify any shifts in the ocean floor which mariners need to be aware of.”

The RAN’s Airborne LiDAR Bathymetry (ALB) system has been developed by Fugro for surveys of shallow coastal areas. Under a long term contract to the RAN, Fugro provides the LADS technology, a de Havilland Dash 8-202 aircraft and support services.

“The New Zealand deployment by RAN LADS is an excellent example of how our innovative technology can assist in the safety of navigation and management of the marine environment,” said Paul Seaton, Fugro’s regional business development manager.