Xcalibur Smart Mapping, the global leader in airborne geophysics, with over 40 aircrafts, today announced a significant expansion of its North American operations with the addition of Air Tractor aircraft to its fleet. These specialized aircraft will be deployed in Canada and the United States to conduct low-level, high-resolution surveys aimed at accelerating the discovery and development of critical minerals essential for the transition to a sustainable energy future. 

With a proven track record of over 1,400 successful projects across six continents, Xcalibur Smart Mapping continues to lead in providing innovative geophysical solutions for mapping and assessing natural resources. This milestone is the result of a collaborative effort between teams from South Africa and Canada, leveraging Canada’s extensive experience in aerial surveys and ensuring compliance with local safety and data quality standards. 

The introduction of Air Tractor aircraft, renowned for their maneuverability and stability at low altitudes, significantly enhances the company’s ability to deliver precise and detailed data for critical mineral exploration projects. After two years of dedicated work and recognizing the sector’s need for more efficient geophysical surveys, Xcalibur Smart Mapping developed an Air Tractor capable of geophysical survey equipped with an auxiliary fuel tank to extend aircraft endurance. This groundbreaking project was made possible through collaboration with Metal Innovations Aero in Oregon, USA. 

The Air Tractor is approved for low-level geophysical survey with MAG/RAD (Magnetics and Radiometric) and iCORUS-X™ technology, allowing for greater accuracy in data collection, particularly in areas with challenging topography. The high-resolution surveys conducted by Xcalibur Smart Mapping will provide valuable insights into the distribution and concentration of critical minerals, aiding in the identification of potential deposits and informing resource development strategies. 

“We are thrilled to expand our operations in North America with the addition of Air Tractor aircraft,” said Andres Blanco, CEO of Xcalibur Smart Mapping. “These aircraft, combined with our state-of-the-art geophysical technology and expertise, will enable us to conduct surveys with unprecedented precision, contributing to the responsible discovery and development of critical minerals vital for a sustainable future.” 

Davin Allen, Managing Director – Americas of Xcalibur Smart Mapping, noted, “The Air Tractor is the ideal aircraft for geophysical survey given its powerful turbine engine enabling better terrain following. The aircraft also has superior situational awareness with a ‘heads up’ display mounted outside the cockpit and superior safety features such as a built-in safety cage around the cockpit and airbags incorporated into the 5-point restraint harness.” 

Securing the modified aircraft approvals was a significant milestone, as this Air Tractor will now be able to develop projects anywhere in the world, facilitating the detection of critical minerals necessary for the energy transition. The complexities involved were enormous, but the benefits for both the industry and the environment are substantial. 

Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s clients include the USGS as well as major and junior mining clients in Canada exploring for critical minerals. By improving the efficiency of aerial surveys, the company is taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future. This innovation not only supports the detection of critical minerals but also contributes to the broader goal of environmental conservation and efficient resource management. 

Committed to responsible and sustainable resource development practices, Xcalibur Smart Mapping ensures that its geophysical surveys minimize environmental impact while maximizing data quality, ensuring that critical mineral exploration is conducted with utmost care for surrounding ecosystems.  

The expansion of Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s North American operations and the deployment of Air Tractor aircraft represent a significant milestone in the company’s mission to unlock natural capital responsibly and accelerate the global transition to a sustainable energy economy.