Edmonton airport set to be the world’s first drone delivery hub

Drone Delivery Canada (DDC) is to establish the world’s first airport drone delivery hub, at Edmonton International Airport.

DDC, with the assistance of sales agent Air Canada, has entered into a commercial agreement with the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority (ERAA) to use the Canadian airport for its proprietary drone delivery platform.

The two partners will build out flight routes from Edmonton using DDC’s DroneSpot take-off and landing zones utilizing DDC’s drone flight infrastructure.

All operations will be conducted in accordance with the Canadian Aviation Regulations and Transport Canada flight authorisations and are subject to DDC obtaining all required regulatory approvals.

DDC president and chief executive Michael Zahra said: “With ERAA, we will develop a drone logistics network centred at this world-class airport as a hub for numerous drone routes for our customers.

“We will continue to work with ERAA and Transport Canada to define particular routes, and with ERAA and Air Canada to negotiate revenue metrics and other commercial terms.

Zahra continued: “Given the potential size and scope of this disruptive offering, revenue outlook could be significant while concurrently bringing tremendous logistical benefits to the region. 

“To all our stakeholders, I am pleased to report that we will be working closely with EIA to further our current expertise in operating at a major airport in controlled airspace to monetize similar opportunities globally.” 

The initial term of the agreement is five years with additional successive one-year terms to follow unless the agreement is formally terminated. 

EIA VP of air service and commercial development Myron Keehn said that the partners would “drastically modernize cargo logistics and supply chain solutions”. Added Keehn: “Together with our long-standing partnership with Air Canada, we look forward to expanding DDC’s network of customers at EIA’s Airport City, the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, and other strategic partners.

“DDC’s DroneSpot at EIA elevates intermodal connectivity to support the growing E-Commerce, Pharmaceuticals, Courier and Oil & Gas sectors. Thanks to our partners like NAV Canada and Transport Canada, our airport is leading in embracing innovation.”