The UK air traffic management service, NATS says the majority of the British public supports drone use for a range of reasons, particularly for emergency services, infrastructure inspections, and surveillance and security.
The findings form part of NATS’ annual Aviation Index survey of the UK public. Each year NATS works with the research agency, Ipsos to produce an in-depth look at people’s attitudes to flying and the aviation industry.
Now in its seventh year, the Index has consistently tracked changes in public attitudes and perceptions around some key issues impacting the industry.
“The public remains open to using drones for public services,” the Index states with support for drones being used for emergency services high at 76 percent, followed closely by infrastructure inspections (71 percent), surveillance and security (68 percent), and photos and videos for public services (63 percent). In addition, 56 percent said they would support drones being used for goods delivery services.
Last year’s Aviation Index found that 70 percent supported drone use for infrastructure projects, such as inspecting powerlines, and 55 percent supported the idea of them being used for routine deliveries. While these represent only small increases, the important take-home here is maintained public acceptance, crucial for scaling up drone operations in the UK.
More public outreach may be required in the area of advanced air mobility however, with 54 percent of respondents saying they would not use ‘flying taxis’, citing perceived safety (50 percent) and cost (56 percent) issues.
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Image: NATS
