Implementing such an option will also contribute to improving the safety of postal workers who operate in challenging terrains.The service conducted by Skyports uses a Speedbird Aero DLV-2 aircraft specifically designed for heavy-lifting air logistics. The drone has six electric rotors and is capable to complete a round trip of 4.9 miles . The drone is capable of beyond visual line of sight operations as well, enhancing its effectiveness to service distant areas.
The aircraft is already operational, providing services for warehouses, hospitals, laboratories, and courier needs.Aiming to improve the reliability of mail services to remote communities, Royal Mail announced in May that it plans to deploy approximately 200 drones across 50 new routes, with special emphasis on serving the Isles of Scilly, Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands, and the Hebrides.
Over the past 18 months, Royal Mail has performed four drone tests, including flights on the Scottish Isle of Mull, the Isles of Scilly off the Cornish coast, and between Kirkwall and North Ronaldsay on the Orkney Islands. Using such cleaner forms of mobility is also set to assist Royal Mail's efforts to reduce its carbon emissions. "Using a fullydrone supports Royal Mail's continued drive to reduce emissions associated with our operations, whilst connecting the island communities we deliver to," Chris Paxton, head of drone trials at Royal Mail, said in a statement.
The postal delivery firm aims to expand its fleet to include 500 drone sin the coming years and extend these services across the UK.