China-based DJI has developed a new technology to identify and monitor drone flights.

The new AeroScope technology is designed to use an existing communications link between a drone and its remote controller to transmit various identification information, including a registration or serial number, in addition to basic telemetry details such as location, altitude, speed and direction.

Police, security agencies, aviation authorities and other authorised parties can use an AeroScope receiver to receive drone identification information for monitoring, analysing and taking timely decisions.

“DJI AeroScope addresses the need for accountability with technology that is simple, reliable and affordable, and is available for deployment now.”

AeroScope also ensures that the flight information will not be automatically recorded in government databases, thereby protecting user privacy.

Since its installation in two airports earlier this year, the solution has been conducting tests and evaluating its performance in other operational environments.

DJI policy and legal affairs vice-president Brendan Schulman said: “As drones have become an everyday tool for professional and personal use, authorities want to be sure they can identify who is flying near sensitive locations or in ways that raise serious concerns.

“DJI AeroScope addresses the need for accountability with technology that is simple, reliable and affordable, and is available for deployment now.”

Once the power is switched on a drone, an AeroScope receiver can instantly sense the vehicle and identify its location on a map while displaying a registration number.

The solution can be integrated with the existing models of DJI drones and does not require the operators to install new onboard equipment or modifications.

It can also be configured with drones made by other manufacturers.