The Cyprus Post Office (KT) is looking for ways to apply the technology of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (drones) for transporting parcels up to four kilos, in the framework of its cooperation with the University of Cyprus. In the first stage, which is estimated to be implemented at the end of 2019 and the beginning of 2020, the drone system will operate on a pilot basis, while the flight rules of the Civil Aviation Department drones will be taken into account.
In statements to KYPE, the Director of the Department of Postal Services Andreas Grigoriou said that in order to apply the technology related to the use of drones for transporting parcels, "Cyprus Post is in contact with the research center of the University of Cyprus" KIOS "to use the science and know-how of the research center in this field ”.
He noted that this is a program that "we are following in recent years in collaboration with other advanced organizations in Europe."
"From the Post Office there is the intention, we are researching it and we are at a satisfactory level to see how we can utilize this new technology so that the Cyprus Post can become more efficient and deliver the mail on time and especially the parcels and small packages" , he said.
It seems the technology provides the possibility of increased autonomy as well as the ability to carry packages up to 4 kg, he added.
The Director of CB expressed the assessment that within 2019 they will be able to proceed with the utilization of this equipment, taking into account the restrictions that exist through the Civil Aviation, ie the flight rules of the drones.
"We estimate that by the end of 2019, beginning of 2020, we will be able to say something more specific, at least for a pilot implementation of this system," he said.
Mr. Grigoriou explained that after consultation with the recipient, the time of receipt / dispatch of the parcel will be determined, while there will be a management system for the drones which will leave with the parcel from a specific point and will land at the recipient's premises. He noted that there would be evidence that a parcel had been delivered.