UPS drone delivery subsidiary, UPS Flight Forward (UPSFF), today said it would collaborate with German drone-maker, Wingcopter, to develop the next generation of package delivery unmanned craft.
A company press release reports that UPS chose Wingcopter for its technology and track record in delivering a variety of goods over long distances in multiple international settings.
“Drone delivery is not a one-size-fits-all operation,” explained Bala Ganesh, Vice-President of the ‘UPS Advanced Technology Group.’ “Our collaboration with Wingcopter helps pave the way for us to begin drone delivery service in new use-cases. UPSFF is building a network of technology partners to broaden our unique capability to serve customers and extend our leadership in drone delivery.”
As part of this collaboration both companies will work toward earning regulatory certification for a Wingcopter unmanned aircraft to carry out commercial delivery flights in the USA. Also, this is a critical step toward building a diverse fleet of drones with varying capabilities to meet a wider range of customer needs. It is UPSFF’s first partnership with a drone manufacturer since its formation
“We are proud to partner with UPS,” said Tom Plümmer, CEO and co-founder of Wingcopter. “Together we aspire to extend the speed and reach of package delivery.”
He continued, “Our vision has always been to leverage technology to improve the lives of people around the world, and the strategic relationship with UPS will further accelerate our growth and global expansion, strengthening our role as an industry leader in drone technology.”
Last September, UPSFF received the US Government’s standard part 135 certification to operate a drone airline and has also completed drone deliveries under the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s Part 107 rules within the FAA’s Integration Pilot Program.
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