Japan trials ‘drone highways’ as regulations loosen

18th July 2018 - 13:31 GMT | by Gordon Arthur in Tokyo

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A grouping of three companies in Japan is exploring the feasibility of what they call ‘drone highways’ for logistics deliveries.

The three firms – TEPCO Ventures, Zenrin and Rakuten – announced that a successful demonstration test was conducted on 27 June to prove the concept. It took place in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, where a UAS flew 3km.

The goal is to utilise the airspace above infrastructure such as power lines, to create commercial UAS corridors.

The partners commented: ‘The drone successfully delivered boxed lunches to local residents while maintaining a safe distance from power transmission infrastructure.’

Zenrin is a map

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Author

Gordon Arthur

Gordon Arthur was the Asia Pacific editor for Shephard Media. Born in Scotland and educated …

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