The UK Open Skies Network has announced plans to establish the country’s first dedicated droneport and advanced air mobility (AAM) test flight hub. The facility aims to accelerate the safe integration of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles into British airspace.
Controlled Environment for BVLOS Testing and Autonomous Flight Algorithms
Located within a yet-to-be-confirmed region, the hub will serve as a controlled environment for testing beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, autonomous flight algorithms, and ground infrastructure for passenger carrying air taxis. The Open Skies Network, known for its work on UAS traffic management (UTM) and corridor development, envisions the droneport as a replicable model for future regional and urban AAM nodes.
Key Features: Take-off Pads, Hydrogen Charging, Remote Digital Tower
Key features include dedicated take-off and landing pads, maintenance hangars, hydrogen and electric charging stations, and a remote digital tower for surveillance and communication. The hub will also host simulation labs and data analytics centers to monitor flight safety, noise levels, and airspace integration challenges.
Cargo Logistics, Medical Deliveries, Infrastructure Inspection, and eVTOL Trials
According to project leads, the droneport will support a range of missions: cargo logistics, emergency medical deliveries, infrastructure inspection, and eventually crewed eVTOL trials. By centralising test capabilities, the initiative aims to reduce fragmentation in the UK drone industry, where companies currently rely on disparate ad hoc test sites.
Alignment with CAA Innovation Sandbox and Future of Flight Action Plan
The hub aligns with the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s “Innovation Sandbox” and the government’s Future of Flight action plan. It is expected to create local jobs in engineering, data science, and air traffic management while attracting private investment into the region.
Construction Slated for Late 2026 with Live Test Flights by Early 2027
Initial construction is slated for late 2026, with live test flights commencing by early 2027. The Open Skies Network is in discussions with several drone and eVTOL manufacturers to become anchor tenants. Public consultations will be held to address community concerns around noise, privacy, and safety.
If successful, the UK’s first droneport could serve as a blueprint for a nationwide network of AAM hubs, positioning Britain as a leader in next generation aviation.
