Sri Lanka to launch passenger drone service pilot project this month
Sri Lanka is preparing to introduce passenger drone services for the first time, with a pilot project scheduled to begin on November 11.
The Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation says the service will initially use autonomous, battery-powered aircraft developed by China-based technology company EHang.
These passenger drones are designed to operate without an onboard pilot, using GPS and computer-controlled systems. They can also run entirely on battery power or renewable energy, producing no direct carbon emissions during flight.
The technology is expected to offer a new transport option while helping reduce road congestion in busy urban areas.
During the initial phase, flights are expected to connect Colombo with destinations along the southern coast, as well as Katunayake with Port City Colombo.
Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilake said preliminary testing of the drone taxi service was already underway.
He confirmed that the necessary approvals had been obtained from relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Defence and the Civil Aviation Authority.
The initial service is expected to target both international visitors and local tourists, offering aerial journeys over Colombo and surrounding areas.
The government is also exploring plans to extend the service to major tourist destinations, including Sigiriya and Jaffna.
Beyond passenger transport, the technology could support tourism, emergency disaster response and maritime operations.
The proposed service marks a new step in Sri Lanka's efforts to explore modern aviation technology and alternative transport solutions.
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Source : Sirasa News
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