Drones represent a major technological innovation, with their incredible potential set to revolutionise a number of industries

The quick advancements in drone technology has led to numerous innovations in various industries. The potential for UAVs is massive, with the market for drones expected to hit $100 billion dollars within the next five years.

As a result, plenty of companies are investigating how drones can be utilised, and by 2030, one billion drones are predicted to be inhabiting our skies. Here are three industries that will be revolutionised by drones.

1. Delivery

Many experts, companies, members of the public, and even TV shows have been anticipating the use of drones as delivery mechanisms for years. In the near future, this is likely to be a common use for drones.

There are, however, designs in place to take this idea up a notch. Walmart and Amazon have both filed patents in the last few years for a UAV airborne warehouse. Walmart’s plans would see a large blimp-like drone, which is operated by either a remote pilot or through automation, floating 500-1000 feet in the air.

From the main airship, smaller drones would be released, delivering goods straight to shoppers’ doorsteps. The airship can then fly from town-to-town, restocking the delivery drones between locations.

It is hoped that this approach would lead to more efficient deliveries, reducing the time it takes for customers to receive packages.

2. Transportation

UAVs are also expected to revolutionise the transportation industry as well, with the market in this sector predicted to replace around $13 billion worth of labour and business services in the next few years.

A large part of this estimate is predicated on the development of flying taxis, which are currently being explored by a variety of companies, including Uber.

There are several other companies looking to exploit this burgeoning market, including Ehang Corp, a major drone manufacturer in China. The company have completed over a thousand test flights of their Ehang 184 flying taxi, both with and without passengers.

Thanks to its eight electrically-powered rotors, the Ehang 184 can fly for 10 miles at up to 80mph. This amazing flying taxi also features an automated flight system, using onboard sensors and satellite navigation to chart a course.

While the Ehang 184 can only carry people and cargo for 23 minutes at the moment, this innovation demonstrates the future of drone transportation.

Also read: Drones and algorithms are disrupting the evolving and competitive food delivery business

3. Sport

As well as these practical applications, drones are also being invested in for competitive sport. The UK broadcasting giant Sky recently announced their $1 million investment in the Drone Racing League.

Founded in 2015 in the US, the sport sees drone pilots race speedy custom-designed UAVs through three-dimensional obstacle courses. The concept, which Sky describe as “a cross between Robot Wars and Red Bull air racing”, is new to the UK, but is established in the US with its national championship held every August in Texas.

The Drone Racing League has also signed broadcasting deals with ESPN and 7Sports, with these various broadcasters hoping that the sport takes off in a big way.

Drones represent a major technological innovation, with their incredible potential set to revolutionise a number of industries. Keep watching the skies!

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