Colombo, October 19 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka is preparing to launch what it says will be South Asia’s first passenger-carrying drone service, with the first aircraft already arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) Director General Daminda Rambukwella told the Daily Mirror.
The first flight is expected to take place on October 30 or 31, or during the first week of November, with Colombo Port City identified as the launch point.
Rambukwella said the destination would be decided following discussions with the Ministry of Defence, scheduled for October 23.
The initiative marks a major step towards introducing electric air taxis in Sri Lanka, with plans to use the technology for passenger transport, tourism, emergency medical services and the delivery of cargo to hard-to-reach areas, he said.
"Although the first passenger-carrying drone has arrived, an international team of experts is expected to visit Sri Lanka to discuss how the project should be implemented, taking into account the country's geography and transport needs," he said.
Rambukwella said Sri Lanka had completed the necessary regulatory processes under the relevant United States certification standards for the selected aircraft. Local regulations governing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) systems are also being finalised.
The first aircraft, imported under the EHang brand from Thailand, can carry two passengers. A second shipment is expected to arrive on November 28.
The CAASL plans to introduce larger aircraft capable of carrying four to six passengers next year. These could operate like shuttle services, with flights every 30 minutes over distances of around 20 kilometres.
Designated facilities known as vertiports will be required for take-offs, landings, charging and passenger handling.
Rambukwella said the project could also open the door for passenger-drone manufacturers to establish operations in Sri Lanka, depending on the business model agreed upon with the Government. Discussions on this possibility are ongoing.
Unlike conventional unmanned drones, the aircraft planned for the service are electric aerial vehicles specifically designed to carry people.
Countries including China, Singapore and Thailand have already begun introducing passenger-drone technology. Sri Lanka intends to assess its suitability through a pilot programme before expanding its use.
Beyond urban transport, the aircraft could be used to provide scenic flights over the hill country and coastal areas, including whale-watching destinations. They could also support emergency medical transport and deliver essential supplies to remote communities.
The CAASL expects the technology to provide a relatively affordable and environmentally friendly transport option while creating new opportunities in aviation and tourism.
The aircraft are expected to operate at altitudes of around 400 to 500 feet and will be equipped with real-time tracking and monitoring systems to support safe operations.
Rambukwella said passenger-carrying drones could cost less than some premium electric cars, adding that the technology had the potential to change how people travel in Sri Lanka.
However, the success of the service will depend on the outcome of the pilot programme, the completion of local regulations and the establishment of the infrastructure needed to operate the aircraft safely.
