A recent study by Dr. Roy Armstrong and Caitlin Henderson found no evidence that seabirds in Orkney are disturbed by Windracers’ drone flights.
Seabird Study Details
Conducted during a drone delivery trial, this study involved the Windracers ULTRA, an autonomous twin-engine aircraft with a 10-meter wingspan. It flew between Eday, Westray, and North Ronaldsay several times weekly.
Dr. Armstrong and Henderson focused on the Calf of Eday, home to 32 bird species and designated as a Special Protection Area. They observed cormorants, fulmars, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and gulls.
The birds didn’t react negatively to the drones. Some gulls showed interest in the drone, similar to how they follow farm machinery. Other disruptions were from sheep, people, and a boat.
Dr. Armstrong noted, “The trials clearly demonstrated that there was no disturbance effect observed at the chick rearing stage of a wide range of species.” He highlighted the low noise from the Windracers ULTRA as a reason for minimal impact on the birds.
Environmental Commitment and Drone Delivery
Windracers aims to understand the environmental impacts of their drones. Rob Datson said, “The findings of this study will no doubt be of reassurance to Orkney residents as well as the birdwatching community around the world.”
The drone trial is part of the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment (SATE) program, which looks into using drones for cost-effective deliveries to remote areas like Scotland’s Highlands and Islands. The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Flight Challenge helps fund this initiative.
Future of Drones in the UK
The Civil Aviation Authority chose SATE to test safe drone integration into UK airspace. Highland and Islands Airports Ltd will lead this project with Windracers, focusing on safety for wildlife and the environment.
The Windracers ULTRA can carry up to 100 kg and travel 1,000 km, designed for reliable logistics without needing a remote pilot.
This research shows drones can help remote areas while protecting wildlife, pointing towards sustainable drone use.
