Sri Lanka is set to begin testing a passenger drone service next month, with the government targeting the launch of commercial operations within six months, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Ruwan Kodithuwakku said.
Under the initial plan, the passenger drones would operate on routes of up to 25 kilometres, with two potential flight paths to tourist destinations also being considered.
The first phase of the pilot is expected to explore routes connecting Colombo with the southern coast, as well as Katunayake and Port City.
Kodithuwakku said two aircraft are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in September. During the first two months of the pilot, authorities will assess operations and develop suitable flight routes.
The project is primarily being considered to support tourism, while potential uses in emergency and disaster response, as well as marine and naval operations, are also being explored.
According to the Deputy Minister, one of the key advantages of passenger drones is their ability to operate with relatively limited space required for take-off and landing.
The government aims to move towards commercial passenger drone operations in Sri Lanka within six months of completing the initial trials.
