The UK government today announced almost UKP50 million (USD68 million) investment in the drone and wider advanced air mobility sectors.
Part of the investment will see a crackdown on “faceless” drones, which can be used in suspicious or illegal activity, through the first bespoke drone identification system. The measures will make it easier for police to identify illegal or nuisance users and clear the way for legitimate drone operators, according to a government press statement.
“Delivered through the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the funding will also cut red tape and support the regulatory, digital and security foundations needed to bring drones and advanced air mobility – such as electric flying taxis – into more routine use across the UK,” said the statement.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather, said: “We’re backing the next generation of British aviation innovators with nearly UK50 million to drive drone regulation reforms, and unlock barriers to growth that will create jobs, lower emissions, and further the UK’s world-leading aviation reputation.
“Innovation must go hand in hand with strong security – that’s why over half of our investment will develop a new ID system to track drones in real-time, supporting emergency services and building public confidence in an industry that could be worth up to £103 billion by 2050.”
Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, said: “This funding will create a numberplate system for the skies. Law enforcement will be able to identify and take action against those who break the law, taking drones out of the sky, and protecting the public.”
Hybrid Remote ID works by sending out the drone’s ID and location during flight so nearby devices can pick it up, sharing flight details through a secure online system that authorised people can access even when they’re not nearby and recording historic data.
The funding also includes UK26.5 million to drive smarter regulation and cut red tape – making it easier for drones to be used in everyday public services, and driving economic growth across the UK, said the government statement. This includes speeding up approvals for drone operations for emergency responses, medical logistics and infrastructure inspection, driving forward regulation to get flying taxis in the sky from 2028. Drone operators will also benefit from a streamlined digital application process, reducing the time required to navigate regulation and prepare applications.
For more information
https://dft-newsroom.prgloo.com/news/nearly-gbp-50-million-government-backing-to-power-up-drone-and-flying-taxi-tech-and-crack-down-on-illegal-drones
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