The news around the world is dominated by the current pandemic – and drone industry news is no exception.  Just as drones saw new uses in disaster response efforts after hurricanes and earthquakes, new applications are appearing as a result of today’s crisis.  This week, the FAA issued regulatory guidance on drone use for coronavirus response efforts.

Safety is the agency’s top priority – but the message sent by the new guidance is clear.  The FAA is working to help drone service providers go to work on behalf of communities, expanding the use of medical drone delivery and other community initiatives.

Google spin-off Wing is expanding existing drone delivery programs in light of the coronavirus.  About a year ago, Wing was the first drone operator in the U.S. to be certified as an air carrier, granting the company authority to conduct commercial drone delivery.  Since then, the company has begun testing operations in Virginia.  Now, their drone delivery program is helping consumers to limit trips to the store and receive contactless delivery of supplies.  From Wing:

The FAA’s Updated Guidance:

Drone Use for Response Efforts
The FAA is enabling drone use for COVID-19 response efforts within our existing regulations and emergency procedures. Our small unmanned aircraft rule (Part 107) and Certificate of Authorization process allow operators to transport goods and certain medical supplies – including test kits, most prescription drugs and, under certain circumstances, blood – provided the flight complies with all provisions of the rule or authorization. The FAA also issues special approvals, some in less than an hour, for flights that support emergency activities and appropriate government, health, or community initiatives. The agency’s Systems Operations Support Center is available 24/7 to process emergency requests. Safety is the top consideration as we review each request.