The UK’s aviation regulator has identified six projects, including one led by e-commerce giant Amazon, to explore the use of drones for deliveries, infrastructure inspections, and emergency services, according to a statement released on Thursday.
Earlier this year, the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) expressed its intention to expand drone operations for such purposes.
Currently, drone operators in the UK are only allowed to fly beyond visual line of sight under strict conditions during specific trials.
The newly announced CAA trials will enable selected projects to operate drones over greater distances, beyond the operator’s visual range, utilizing advanced navigation and control technologies to detect other aircraft.
Among the projects are Amazon’s Prime Air delivery service, Airspection’s offshore windfarm inspection initiative, and Project Lifeline, which is focused on delivering medical supplies.
The CAA stated that these trials would contribute to the ongoing development of policies and regulations, aiming for the seamless integration of drone flights with other airspace users.
Amazon revealed in October of last year that it plans to start drone deliveries in the UK, Italy, and a third location in the United States.
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