SkyDrop is set to launch regular drone deliveries in New Zealand

SkyDrop (formerly Flirtey) has announced that it has received Part 102 certification from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand to open its first drone hub in Huntly, New Zealand. SkyDrop is now the first firm in New Zealand to be certified for live store-to-door drone delivery, which includes certain beyond visual line of sight operations. This is a significant step forward for the drone delivery solutions provider in its mission to make drone delivery accessible to a larger population.

SkyDrop designs drone delivery aircraft, enabling software, and launch platforms to provide delivery solutions to customers all over the world. The recent approval allows SkyDrop to open its first drone hub in Huntly, paving the way for revenue-generating drone deliveries with a clear route to economic sustainability for SkyDrop and its clients.

After conducting an in-depth evaluation of SkyDrop's technology and operational processes, the CAA awarded the permission. SkyDrop's industry-leading safety technology, including an onboard Parachute Recovery System, provides the foundation for this clearance, which was assessed by the CAA.

"SkyDrop is excited to work with the CAA to make New Zealand the innovation leader in speedier, cheaper, and greener last-mile drone delivery. This approval is a groundbreaking milestone for SkyDrop, and the drone delivery industry," said Matthew Sweeny, Founder and CEO, SkyDrop. "SkyDrop is set to launch regular drone deliveries to the nearly 10,000 people and businesses in Huntly. Tell us: What will you deliver? And if you want to be the next business or town in New Zealand with drone delivery, reach out to us at SkyDrop!"

This approval follows years of extensive testing in the United States and New Zealand. SkyDrop has also received approvals from Waikato District Council following engagement with local stakeholders in Raahui Pookeka (Huntly) including the Waahi Paa, who named a SkyDrop drone Te Kaahu (The Hawk). SkyDrop drone delivery enables speedier and cheaper delivery for local communities that also reduces traffic congestion and greenhouse emissions.

This lays the foundation for SkyDrop to scale because the risk assessment method that secured this approval can be adapted to additional locations to build a nationwide network of drone hubs across New Zealand, and to Australia, Canada, and the European Union member countries who all use the JARUS SORA method.