The UK Government has awarded almost 50 million GBP to unlock growth in the drone and advanced air mobility sector.
The 46.5 million GBP investment will also aim to crack down on what are referred to as ‘faceless’ drones, which can be used in suspicious or illegal activity, through the first bespoke drone identification system.
Delivered through the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the funding will be used to cut red tape and support the regulatory, digital and security foundations necessary to bring drones and advanced air mobility into more routine use throughout the UK.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather, said:We’re backing the next generation of British aviation innovators with nearly £50 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.
Hybrid Remote ID will employ a system in which a drone’s ID and location is sent out during flight so nearby devices can pick it up, allowing for the sharing of flight details through a secure online system that authorised users can access from any location.
The newly-announced funding also includes 26.5 million GBP to drive smarter regulation and cut red tape, enabling the faster introduction of drones in everyday services – with Government plans including intentions to get flying taxis operational in the UK from 2028.
Drone operators will be able to benefit from a streamlined digital application process, reducing the time required to navigate regulations and prepare applications.
