Drone delivery network to be tested in Waterloo Region

The Region of Waterloo has partnered with Toronto-based AirMatrix to test a network of drone flight paths in the region. 

Trials are already underway with medicine drone-delivered to homes and long-term care facilities by The School of Pharmacy at the University of Waterloo, Hogan Pharmacy and PeopleCare.

Nancy Waite Associate Director at the University of Waterloo says in a release, “Healthcare is very dynamic right now, and drone-delivery is an effective way to get medication to those who need it and minimize person-to-person contact. Watching it arrive from out of the sky, land and have healthcare staff retrieve the medication was remarkable.”

AirMatrix officials say in the coming weeks, local companies will test out their new “skyway network” for emergency first response, contactless delivery, telecommunications, and infrastructure inspection.

“With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, drone usage has accelerated further,” said Shayaan Haider, cofounder at AirMatrix. “There has never been a better time to focus on innovative contactless services, like drone delivery, to stop the spread of the virus, as well as ensure those with mobility issues get the care they deserve.”

Regional Chair Karen Redman says this is good news for us locally, “the outcome of this work will help shape the drone ecosystem in our country in the future, which is why supporting a neighbouring start-up made sense for the Region.”

AirMatrix builds the so called “skyways” to ensure drone traffic stays organized, safe, and under control in tight urban spaces.