Following in the footsteps of Amazon and DHL Switzerland’s postal services have confirmed they will start introducing drone delivery systems later this summer.
Utilising a fleet of Matternet ONE drones, Swiss couriers will take to the skies in a matter of weeks, trialling airborne delivery systems in a variety of locations.
According to the three delivery services involved, “the primary aim of this pilot project is a Proof of Concept to clarify the legal framework, consider local conditions and explore the technical and business capabilities of the drones.”
Capable of carrying cargo up to 1kg in weight over distances of up to 20km (12.4 miles), the drones will initially be used to transports small items including medicine and documents.
The companies have revealed that if the first wave of testing is successful, a further two trial periods would be required before drone deliveries become a widespread thing.
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Matternet CEO, Andreas Raptopoulos, added: “We are extremely excited to bring Matternet ONE to Switzerland, one of the most technologically-advanced countries in the world, and discover how this new transportation paradigm will bring tremendous value to our partners, their customers and the country at large.”
Related: Drones in the UK: Where will they fly next?
Amazon has been a key factor in the push for drone delivery systems. The internet giant has been openly championing the technology over the past 18 months, repeatedly petitioning for licenses to test its drone technology.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
