Ireland urged to accelerate drone adoption

Ireland risks missing out on the economic and operational benefits of drone technology if it fails to keep pace with global investment, the Oireachtas transport committee will hear this week. While the UK, US, and Canada integrate drones into mainstream infrastructure, Ireland’s aviation sector is urged to push beyond pilot projects to strategic deployment.

Stakeholders highlight drones’ potential to cut emissions, lower operational risks, and open new revenue streams across agriculture, construction, infrastructure, and emergency services. Yet concerns remain around noise impact and public acceptance. Companies like Manna are working on quieter systems while emphasising drones’ carbon savings.

With over 8,000 operators and 23,000 remote pilots registered, Ireland’s drone ecosystem is growing, but experts warn that regulation, innovation, and community engagement must advance in tandem to ensure drones become an integral part of national infrastructure – not just a niche technology.

Read the full article to explore what this means for your operations.