UK Plans Regulatory Changes for Drones in NHS, Offshore Operations by 2026

The UK government is planning to change drone regulations by 2026 to allow drones to fly beyond the operator’s visual line of sight, enabling their use for long-distance missions such as delivering NHS supplies, inspecting offshore wind turbines, and supplying oil rigs in remote areas. These changes would initially apply to less congested, 'atypical' airspaces such as the Scottish Highlands and offshore regions, with trials already underway for NHS deliveries between hospitals. Lord David Willetts, chair of the Regulatory Innovation Office, highlighted the potential benefits for both commercial operators and public services, including healthcare and law enforcement under initiatives like the Safer Streets fund. The government has allocated £16.5 million to establish a regulatory framework for these operations, aiming to ensure the safe and efficient integration of drones into UK airspace. The new regime is expected to position the UK as a leader in drone technology adoption while addressing existing technical and regulatory challenges. Progress in these areas could pave the way for broader use of drones across various sectors in the future.