Drone technology could transform United Kingdom skies and boost its economy by NZ$94 billion (45 billion pounds) by the end of the decade.
So says the UK Department for Transport in releasing its joint Future of Flight action plan with industry which states flying taxis and routine emergency service drones should be a reality by 2028, with more crime-fighting drones also expected.
The action plan is designed to ensure regulation and infrastructure is in place to support the greener, quieter aviation technologies, the department says, adding the plan sets out a roadmap for drones and novel electric aircraft in the UK.
It details plans for the first piloted flying taxi flight by 2026 and regular services by 2028, regular drone deliveries by 2027 and demos of autonomous flying taxis without pilots on board by 2030 – transforming how people and goods are transported.
Flying taxis are expected to make trips three times quicker than by car.
The report says eVTOLs can reach more than 241km/h over 160km and are considered greener than helicopters.
Go to EVs and Beyond for more on this story.
