Motorways in England are set to undergo a significant transformation from 2027, as National Highways announces plans to deploy low-flying drones that could operate just 10 metres above vehicles. The initiative, developed in collaboration with MXT, aims to enhance monitoring of the country's 4,500 miles of motorways and A-roads.
Drone Altitudes and Capabilities
National Highways has created a simulation to test the new system, amid warnings that drivers could be "distracted or disturbed" by the drones. Smaller drones flying at altitudes between 10 and 20 metres will capture more detailed information than larger drones, which are restricted to approximately 50 metres above the road surface.
Global Interest and Expert Opinions
Ewan Murdoch, a senior consultant at Arup, noted that colleagues in Australia and the US have shown interest in similar applications. "This kind of methodology is quite interesting and novel, so globally we're seeing strong interest," he told the Guardian.
Callum Brown, senior adviser on airspace standards at National Highways, described the tests as "cutting edge" and a world first for national application. "They did some tests similar to this in Massachusetts, but in terms of trying to apply this nationally, this is a world first. We're at the cutting edge for this and it's something we've been building for about six years now," he said.
Chief Executive's Vision
Nick Harris, Chief Executive of National Highways, previously stated: "We are at the beginning of a digital revolution in roads infrastructure and expect to see more change in the next decade than we have in the last century. This provides an opportunity to make our roads safer, improve customer experience for all, and support our plans for net zero."
Public Reaction
A 49-year-old who participated in the simulation commented: "It was a bit surreal like a video game, but if it increases health and safety and takes away an element of risk then I'm all for it. And if you can get distracted by a drone flying 10 metres overhead then I think you've got bigger issues than just a drone, and I'm not too sure you should be driving a car in the first place."
