Drone Traffic and Its Potential Impact on Local Authorities
This is a success story about how Aero EDIH empowered Region Västerbotten to explore drone-based solutions. Aero EDIH collaborated with Region Västerbotten and parts of Region 10—a network of ten municipalities in northern Sweden—to explore the potential of drone-based logistics. The objective was to address challenges posed by vast geographical distances and static infrastructure, paving the way for innovative transport solutions. Through a tailored training workshop, Aero EDIH provided critical insights into the technical, operational, and regulatory aspects of drone logistics. This success story highlights how tailored training, and innovation can transform local authorities and foster a more connected and inclusive region.
“The utilising of lower airspace as a transportation route will be crucial for enabling and enhancing faster public services and lighter transportation as a whole, for the region, business and industry,” says Mikael Fredriksson, POC, Region 10.
The Challenge: Bridging Long Distances with Modern Solutions
Region Västerbotten faced significant challenges in modernising its transportation infrastructure. The municipalities had long discussed utilising large drones for postal and parcel deliveries, aiming to connect vast distances with innovative technology. However, introducing a new mode of transport posed numerous hurdles:
- Adapting to new technology with limited prior experience.
- Long distances between municipalities creating logistical and operational difficulties.
- Static city planning struggling to incorporate dynamic, modern solutions.
Recognising their varying levels of expertise on services in the lower airspace, Region Västerbotten turned to Aero EDIH. They sought guidance on the technical, operational, and regulatory aspects of drone-based logistics, aiming to understand the requirements for successful implementation.
Training and Skills Development
In this project, Aero EDIH served as a bridge between theory and practical application for Region Västerbotten, exemplifying the core purpose of the service.
The ”Training and Skills Development” service package by Aero EDIH is designed to help organisations enhance their expertise in aviation and digital innovation. The goal is to equip individuals and teams with the tools and insights they need to reach their full potential. Through tailored training, Aero EDIH fosters development and innovation while addressing the rapidly evolving demands of today’s digital and technological environment.
The Solution: A Tailored Workshop on Drone Logistics
Aero EDIH conducted a one-day workshop in Lycksele, Sweden, designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of drone-based logistics. The workshop included:
- A detailed description of a functioning drone logistics system.
- Modules on vehicles and technical infrastructure, ground infrastructure, airspace management, and regulations.
- An exploration of the digitalisation of the lower airspace, focusing on required systems, their operations, and regulatory frameworks.
The workshop’s structure emphasised practical implementation, helping participants bridge the gap between conceptual understanding and real-world application.
Results and Benefits: Building Foundations for Innovation
The workshop brought together ten participants who expressed high levels of satisfaction with both the sessions and the outcomes. The initiative not only strengthened collaboration between stakeholders but also provided participants with practical knowledge to support funding applications. Moreover, it sparked a continued interest in advancing drone-based logistics as a viable solution for the region’s challenges.
The workshop achieved its primary goal: aligning all participants on the foundational principles of ”services in the lower airspace.” Key outcomes included:
- Participants, including representatives from Region Västerbotten and The County Council Administration, gained critical insights into the regional funding structure required for drone logistics.
- Increased knowledge on applying for funding opportunities and leveraging digital tools, such as UTM systems, to support practical tests of drone logistics.
- Collaboration among the 10 municipalities and suppliers to pursue funding for the initiative, ensuring an open, democratic infrastructure for various logistic service providers.
While the workshop was well-received, it highlighted opportunities for improvement. Extending the format to a two-day workshop would provide participants with more time for in-depth discussions and a more comprehensive planning session focused on regional infrastructure development. Additionally, the extended timeframe would facilitate greater collaboration, fostering improved strategic planning and better alignment among stakeholders.
Social and Economic Impact: A Step Toward Regional Transformation
The implementation of drone-based services in the lower airspace has the potential to “shrink” the region by speeding up critical services, such as healthcare transportation. By bridging geographical gaps, these solutions support the broader goal of a sustainable and accessible Europe, ensuring no community is left behind in public service access.
Though budget constraints have delayed the project, the initiative remains aligned with key European objectives of inclusivity and innovation.
Although the project is unfortunately currently on hold due to regional industrial challenges and budget constraints, we have discussed future workshops. This keeps the vision alive and ensures that the initiative remains aligned with key European objectives for inclusion and innovation.
”It is important to continue discussing the needs and solutions for sparsely populated rural areas in Sweden. In doing so, we can identify how to address various types of transport, where it will likely be necessary to create conditions for combined transport needs,” says Hans Siljebäck Head of Skills and Training at Aero EDIH.
Conclusion: Driving Innovation Forward
The collaboration between Aero EDIH and Region Västerbotten has opened the door to exploring innovative transport solutions that have the potential to reshape the region’s future. By combining new knowledge with enhanced collaboration, the project has established a strong foundation for the continued development of drone logistics. With the ability to improve regional connectivity and support a more inclusive Europe, this initiative represents a promising step towards smarter and more sustainable transportation solutions.
