UK telecommunications and network provider BT is working to establish the UK’s first commercial drone corridor in open and unrestricted airspace through Project XCelerate.
The project aims to overcome the challenge of flying drones beyond the visual line of sight, making the skies safe for fully unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs) to fly in unrestricted airspace.
This summer will see flight trials carried out in an 8km-long corridor located south of Reading, Berkshire. The research will also provide a framework for towns, cities and other organisations to follow.
According to BT, the trials aim to showcase how UAVs can provide value across various sectors, including search and rescue, healthcare through medical supply deliveries, as well as infrastructure inspection assessing damage or maintenance requirements power lines, railway tracks and cell towers.
Dave Pankhurst, head of drone solutions at BT, said: “As part of Project XCelerate, we’re proud to bring together world-leading drone expertise and our secure and resilient network connectivity to launch the UK’s first commercial drone zone and show how drones can deliver improved, life-saving services to the public.”
The project also includes Altitude Angel, Angoka, Dronecloud, DroneStream, HEROTECH8, SkyBound Rescuer, and Skyports. It is supported by the Future Flight Challenge Fund, which is part of the government’s industrial strategy.
