Sky’s the limit: YEG drone delivery model moves to phase two

Public use of drones in YEG airspace remains prohibited. Coun. Simone Pipestem of Montana First Nation envisions drones sustainably benefiting remote Indigenous communities and businesses like solar farms and health clinics. “It would also help to reduce our carbon footprint as a people,” Pipestem said, noting the Montana First Nation chief has been approached by chiefs in remote communities about the project. “I also see the potential economic development opportunities in the growth of drone services and I believe, as First Nations, we can play a part in this industry. Most of us live in remote communities, and I can see training and employment opportunities for our youth in drone services,” she said. “Our issues and needs are similar, and we can solve them collectively if we work together. When our First Nations and rural communities thrive, we all thrive,” Pipestem said. As for the future of drones as delivery methods, the sky’s the limit. Leduc-Beaumont UCP MLA Brandon Lunty said it’s time to embrace the future of drone technology. “There’s so many potential applications,” he said, citing supplying commercial, medical and first responders as some examples.