has announced that it completed the West Michigan Drone Delivery MMFP pilot project in collaboration with operational partners Workhorse Aero, Airspace Link and Caduceus Medical Logistics, as well as community partners West Michigan Regional Airport, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan office of Future Mobility & Electrification, Next Energy and Lakeshore Advantage.
DDC flew its Sparrow RPA and Workhorse Aero flew its Horsefly RPA to successfully demonstrate the delivery of medical products and handoff to Caduceus Medical Logistics in Holland, Michigan.
The initiative aimed to demonstrate the efficiency and viability of incorporating drone delivery for medical supplies, showcasing a flight route of 0.67 miles (1.1 km) compared to a 1.2 mile (1.9 km) traditional driving route. Caduceus Medical Logistics, the medical ground courier operator, tested drone delivery integration capabilities for autonomous and route delivery extension as well as the use of electric vehicles for CO2 emissions reduction.
The operation leveraged Airspace Link’s AirHub Portal digital infrastructure platform to generate a comprehensive analysis for the ground and air risks existing within the City of Holland and specific area of operations. The digital platform enabled the project team to ensure the safety and efficiency of the drone deliveries.
The project accomplished a total of 23 deliveries over 2 days. All demonstrations conducted during the pilot project strictly adhered to 14CFR Part 107 regulations, ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines for unmanned aerial systems.
“The successful pilot project represents a significant step forward in the integration of drone technology into our daily lives, particularly in the critical field of medical product transportation,” said Steve Magirias, CEO, Drone Delivery Canada. “We are grateful for the collaboration with our operational and community partners, as well as the support from regulatory bodies, which has made this achievement possible. I also want to commend our DDC operators that received their US Part 107 certification in support of this effort.”
“Our collaboration showcases Airspace Link’s commitment to revolutionizing logistics. By pioneering safety-focused digital solutions using AirHub Portal, we’re reshaping how communities access critical supplies, setting the stage for a future where efficiency and accessibility intersect effortlessly into the national airspace”
said Michael Healander, Airspace Link President and CEO.
“We appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate Workhorse Aero’s significant capabilities for package delivery with our partners in Michigan.”
said Rick Dauch, Workhorse CEO.
The West Michigan Drone Delivery MMFP pilot project sets the state for future advancements in autonomous aerial deliveries, emphasizing the potential for increased efficiency, reduced environmental impact and improved accessibility in medical supply chain logistics.
Source: Press Release