Royal Mail has launched a new trial that will see uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, deliver mail between the remote Scottish islands of Islay and Jura.
The trial, conducted in collaboration with drone developer Skyports and Argyll and Bute Council, was partially funded by a £250,000 grant from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to demonstrate the potential of drones in enhancing public services.
This initiative marked the first instance where postal workers actively loaded and unloaded drones.
The multirotor drone, which is reportedly capable of carrying up to six kilograms, had been previously used in Orkney trials.
The drone will operate under Extended Visual Line of Sight (EVLOS) flying, allowing it to travel beyond the standard visual range with the assistance of trained observers ensuring safe operation.
The trial was established to address the logistical challenges posed by the Inner Hebrides’ weather and geography, which often disrupted traditional ferry-based mail transport.
By utilising electric drones, the project aims to improve delivery reliability, enhance safety for postal workers and reduce emissions associated with mail operations.
Cllr Jim Lynch, leader of Argyll and Bute Council, said: “We are working hard to make good things happen in Argyll and Bute and these innovative trials could transform the way vital services are delivered to people in our most remote communities.
“Not just council services either, but other local authorities, businesses, organisations, and emergency services throughout the UK – there is huge value in partnership working to help bring benefits to the people of Argyll and Bute.
“In addition, by creating a permanent UAV Hub at Oban Airport, we will be investing in future industries. We will be delivering new, greener jobs, and boosting the local economy while continuing to drive down carbon emissions both now and in the future to create a climate-friendly Argyll and Bute. This is a very exciting time for everyone involved.”
In 2020, Royal Mail became the first UK parcel carrier to use a drone to deliver a parcel. The company worked with several different drone and parts vendors, including Skyports, to deliver to a remote lighthouse on the Isle of Mull using a drone.
Chris Paxton, head of drones, Royal Mail, added: “This drone trial – Royal Mail’s sixth – is the latest step in our innovative collaboration with Skyports. Trialling drones allows us to test out new ways of working to support our posties in delivering to the most remote areas of the UK.
“As parcel volumes increase, we are continually looking for new ways to provide a reliable, fast and lower emission service to all our customers no matter where they live.”
