The Falcon-XL

A simple, easy-to-use methane detection system for fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, the Falcon-XL was deisgned to drastically lower the cost of leak surveys for pipeline owners. Our system can be operated for a fraction of the cost of traditional aerial leak detection systems.

The Falcon-XL can be implemented as part of a pipeline integrity management program to comply with latest leak detection regulations set by the new DOT and EPA. This system allows existing pipeline patrol aircraft to find gas leaks while on routine patrols.

Responsive Design

Our modular sensor systems integrate seamlessly with your aircraft’s existing mount and power infrastructure. Designed for durability and rapid deployment, each unit adapts to your unique flight profile—reducing downtime, maximizing mission efficiency, and ensuring reliable data capture across every inspection mission.

Detect smaller leaks

Vanguard’s advanced TDLAS and methane detection technology identifies smaller leaks faster and from greater distances. By improving detection accuracy you minimize environmental risk, reduce emissions, and strengthen regulatory compliance.

Seamless aircraft integration

Designed to mount directly to existing patrol aircraft, our payload solutions install quickly without major airframe modifications. The Falcon-XL is engineered for precision alignment and aerodynamic balance.
The result: Smoother operations, reduced drag, and consistent data capture across every inspection flight.

EASE OF OPERATION

The Falcon-XL is incredibly easy to use. Unlike other technology, it requires no complex post-flight analysis and is designed to instantly alert the pilot if a methane gas leak is found. Training your pilots is simple and can be accomplished in a single short flight. Operators use an iPad app to monitor and control the system in flight.

FAA APPROVED

Certified for the Cessna 172, 182, 206, and helicopters; simply install the system in minutes and go find gas leaks. Requires no modifications to the aircraft.

HOW IT WORKS

The Falcon-XL uses a safe, low-powered infrared laser to sense the amount of methane over transmission lines, gathering lines, well pads, and above ground facilities. The laser's wavelength is tuned so that it is attenuated by methane molecules. By measuring the amount of laser light that reflects from the ground after passing through a methane plume, the system can locate a gas leak.

PIPELINE TRACKING

The FALCON-XL has two modes of operation:
Pipeline Auto-Track: Users upload the pipeline coordinates and laser automatically tracks the pipeline route.
Pipeline Manual Track: Users operate a joystick to manually track the pipeline route.

SIMPLE POST-FLIGHT ANALYSIS

Post flight analysis is easy. Using a laptop or desktop computer the pilot may open the methane readings in Google Earth (or other GIS software) via a KML file. The methane parts per million meter (PPM-M) is graphically displayed.

LOW COST

The Falcon-XL was specifically designed to be an affordable methane detection system for pipeline owners and pipeline patrol companies. When the system is installed on existing pipeline patrol aircraft, the cost of leak surveys can be significantly reduced.

CONFIDENTIALITY

If the Falcon-XL senses a gas leak, the data is completely confidential. The software gives users full control over who sees the location of the gas leaks. The data is safely stored on the app and is never uploaded to the cloud. Only the pilot knows about any gas leaks. If desired, after the flight, the pilot can then email the sensor readings to the pipeline owner.

Falcon-XL Specifications

Gas Detected:

Volumetric Detection Threshold:

Flow Rate Detection Threshold:

Maximum Airspeed:

Optimum Detection Altitude:

Maximum Detection Altitude:

Power Requirements:

Power Source:

Temperature Limitations:

Pod Weight:

Pod Frontal Area:

System Control:

Environmental Conditions:

Laser Classification:

Respond Time:

Laser Swath:

Methane

50 parts per million meter @ 600’ AGL

Under 10 kg/hour

130 Knots

600' AGL

1000' AGL

12 Volts (33 Watts)

Battery Pack (supplied with kit)

+120 to -20 degrees F

49 lbs

142 square inches

iPad and handheld remote control

Works day or night, cloudy or sunny*

Class 1 Laser (Safe and non harmful)

0.2 seconds

Adjustable up to 20 degrees left or right of nadir.
At 600’ AGL this is a swath of 440’

(*Note: Snow cover may reduce system sensitivity)

All Falcon & Raptor models are FAA/EASA certified and STC-approved for popular aircraft including:
Cessna: 172, 182, & 206 / Helicopters: R44, R66, MD-500 & Bell-206

What's Next - The RAPTOR Series

Vanguard's Latest Systems in Development

1 Raptor-RS

Features

Increased Number of Laser Passes per Second
Wider Swath of Right-of-Way Coverage

2 Raptor-QRS

Features

Includes all Raptor-RS Features
Gas Plume Quantification / Visualization
AI Right-of-Way Threat Detection

All Falcon & Raptor models are FAA/EASA certified and STC-approved for popular aircraft including:
Cessna: 172, 182, & 206 / Helicopters: R44, R66, MD-500 & Bell-206

Ready to See Which Vanguard Product Fits Your Needs?

Talk to a Specialist

Our mission is to provide the oil and gas industry with the most user-friendly, efficient, economical aerial gas detection system.

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