World's first drone airway to open in England this year

This summer, Britain is set to host the opening of the world’s first drone airway. The opening is scheduled to take place between June and early July to enable faster drone deliveries across Britain.

The 165-mile skyway network will connect Coventry in the Midlands with Milton Keynes in the southeast.

The construction of the highway is expected to provide various benefits across multiple industries, but some are voicing concerns over privacy and safety.

Chris Cole, Director of campaign group Drone Wars, has voiced concerns over potential privacy issues and public disruption that may occur with the increasing use of drones. He emphasised the importance of mediating between technological innovation and the interests of the public.

Altitude Angel has said the drones will be used to assist emergency response time and SAR as well as the delivery of medical supplies, and organ transport. Powered by 30 “finger towers”, a grid will control the drones from the ground, enabling them to safely fly without human pilots.

Currently, 15 of the 30 towers have been built, covering around 80-90 miles. The project is supported by BT companies and is part of a large aerospace investment from the UK's government.

Follow-up discussions are anticipated to evaluate the impact of the airway alongside the interests of the public.

This comes after the UK recently proposed new regulations to allow medical deliveries by drone.