Last updated: 27/01/26
The Welsh Ambulance Service Launched its First Drone
Adding to their capability to locate casualties in remote and sometimes challenging environments, the Welsh Ambulance Service has launched its first new drone. The drone can operate in winds up to 20 mph (approx. 32 kph) and is equipped with thermal imaging cameras and a bespoke live-streaming portal to aid search efforts.
- Welsh Ambulance Service deploys new drone for first time: https://emergencyservicestimes.com/2026/01/19/welsh-ambulance-service-deploys-new-drone-for-first-time/
Father and Son Team Break Drone Speed Limits
A father-and-son YouTube team has reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the fastest quadcopter drone, achieving a staggering 408 mph. Built with 3D-printed parts and custom motors, their ingenuity has demonstrated how innovation and passion can drive drone performance to new heights.
- Father and son reclaim Guinness World Record for fastest quadcopter drone: https://www.popsci.com/technology/fastest-quadcopter-drone-father-son/
Amazon Drone Deliveries Approved for the UK
We could be entering a new era of UK logistics as Amazon’s MK30 drone test flights in Darlington mark a significant step toward mainstream drone deliveries, following the CAA’s greenlight. With advanced safety tech and quieter performance, this could redefine same-day delivery and reduce road congestion. Regulatory collaboration will be key, but if successful, this could pave the way for drone deliveries in the UK and, in turn, increase demand for tailored drone insurance products.
- Amazon gets green light to deliver by drone: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/01/09/amazon-gets-green-light-to-deliver-by-drone/
- Amazon starts drone flights in ‘next step’ for UK delivery service: https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/amazon-drone-delivery-darlington-mk30-b2899400.html
Small Drone Businesses are Feeling the Pinch in the US
A recent survey shows that US restrictions on drone manufacturer DJI are causing issues for smaller American operators, forcing them to invest in costly retraining, workflow and equipment changes. While there are alternatives to DJI, the once wide availability of the drone manufacturer’s equipment has made this transition challenging.
- Survey Confirms What Many Expected: Small Drone Businesses Feel the Strain of DJI Restrictions First: https://dronelife.com/2026/01/08/survey-confirms-what-many-expected-small-drone-businesses-feel-the-strain-of-dji-restrictions-first/
Drone Delivery Growth Challenges in Dublin
Air delivery specialist Manna’s plan to expand across Dublin has stalled, as planning hurdles and community concerns over noise and safety highlight the complexities of drone adoption in populated areas. While companies like Amazon have made progress, Manna’s challenges highlight that there are still challenges to overcome in drone logistics.
- What’s happened with Manna’s plan to expand its drone delivery service across Dublin?: https://www.dublininquirer.com/whats-happened-with-mannas-plan-to-expand-its-drone-delivery-service-across-dublin/
Drone-Enabled Healthcare Logistics Heading to Cornwall
Drone Life revealed that the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and the Open Skies Network have formed a partnership to launch a medical drone delivery service in Cornwall. This could be a game-changer for UK drone infrastructure, as it proves that high-value items can be delivered by a BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) system operating in a high-risk zone.
- World-First NHS Partnership Brings Drone Medical Deliveries to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly: https://dronelife.com/2025/12/18/world-first-nhs-partnership-brings-drone-medical-deliveries-to-cornwall-and-the-isles-of-scilly/
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