The UK government’s aviation minister Mike Kane has confirmed that over £20 million will be put towards the development of flying taxis and drone services in the UK.
The government hopes the funding will “maximise opportunities for better and cheaper public services while cutting carbon emissions”.
This comes after the government released the ‘Future of Flight’ action plan last year, which aims to see piloted air taxi services in operation by 2028, and regular drone deliveries by 2027, says Business Traveller.
Funding will go towards developing flight technologies, with DfT, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the new Regulatory Innovation Office (RIO) working to streamline the regulatory processes to ensure a faster rollout.
The government also aims to publish a piloted electric Vertical Take-Off (eVTOL) ‘roadmap’ and develop ‘drone pathways’ for industry to follow.
Kane said:
“I want the UK to have the most advanced aviation technology ecosystem in the world.
“That means creating a nimble regulatory environment and a culture of innovation so everyone can benefit from cutting-edge transport while tackling emissions, traffic and potentially saving lives.
“Our investment alongside the new Future of Flight industry group will bring together tech experts, drone operators, flying vehicle manufacturers and local communities to identify where change needs to happen.”
(Pic: Dreamstime.com)
