Project Skyway is an initiative under Innovate UK’s Future Flight Challenge Programme, which aims to explore the concept of a drone superhighway that enables BVLOS flights and to demonstrate the safety of this innovative technology.
A critical aspect of developing this solution is understanding public and stakeholder perceptions of drones and BVLOS usage. To this end, Connected Places Catapult engaged with various stakeholders, including the public, to gather insights into their perceptions, expectations, and concerns.
Through this engagement, Connected Places Catapult discovered that stakeholders recognise the benefits of the drone superhighway, such as facilitating positive drone applications, promoting UK innovation, and potentially enhancing the sustainability and safety of drone operations. However, concerns were raised about the superhighway’s resilience and the logistics of the first and last mile of drone flights, which affect perceptions of safety, acceptance, and overall feasibility.
The successful implementation of the drone superhighway will necessitate a comprehensive approach that considers the needs of businesses utilising the superhighway and the residents living in proximity to it.
This report presents the findings from engagement with industry stakeholders and members of the public, concluding with recommendations on how to effectively communicate and engage about the superhighway and other related BVLOS technologies.
