Public support for drones in UK reaches new heights

Image courtesy NATS 

Figures in the latest edition of the Aviation Index – NATS’ annual survey of the UK public carried out by Ipsos – show that drones are increasingly seen as valuable, practical tools for delivering essential services. 

The UK public expressed support for the use of drones for emergency response, with 86% voicing approval, up from 76% in 2024. Likewise drones for infrastructure inspections were welcomed by 81%, up from 71% in 2024. The use of drones for delivery services was also supported 58% of respondents. 

In 2021, just 29% of people told NATS they believed the benefits of drones outweighed the negatives. These latest figures demonstrate how far public opinion has shifted as the application of drones has grown. Today, drones are being routinely used for everything from delivering blood samples for the NHS over Central London, to measuring oil and gas rig emissions in the North Sea.
   
Similarly, openness to advanced air mobility solutions has grown, with 40% of people saying they would likely take a flying taxi if available, up from 34% in 2024. Of those who were unwilling, safety and cost were highlighted as the main reservations, but the upward trend in acceptance could signal a shift in attitudes.

Richard Ellis, Director of New Airspace Users at NATS Services, said: "Growing public support is a testament to the innovative operators who are leveraging these technologies to deliver safer, greener and more efficient services across various applications. 

“The challenge now is to enable these pioneers to scale and grow safely, integrating them seamlessly with existing airspace users. I believe the technologies and operational concepts we are developing are part of the solution and we are excited to be contributing to a bright future."

These latest Aviation Index figures come ahead of DroneX – Europe’s leading drone business conference and exhibition. As a key sponsor, NATS will be demonstrating how it is collaborating with the rest of the industry to deliver safe and scalable integrated drone operations in the UK. 

DroneX will be held at the Excel in London from 30th September until 1st October.