There are plans for a full-scale rollout across Kottayam district in future

Skye Air Mobility, a leading drone technology-based logistics firm, has announced a collaboration with CARiTAS Hospital and Institute of Health Sciences, Kottayam, Kerala, to revolutionise medical deliveries through drone technology.

The partnership aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency in the region by leveraging unmanned aerial vehicles for the transportation of essential medical supplies and diagnostic samples. The Caritas Drone Medical Supply Delivery Unit is the first-of-its-kind in South Kerala.

The initiative will see drones carrying payloads of up to 3 kilograms over distances of 10-15 kilometres, connecting CARiTAS Hospital with various other satellite healthcare facilities of CARiTAS (CFH, CKMM, CHPD) and remote areas in the region. The drone delivery system is expected to significantly reduce delivery times from hours to just 5-7 minutes, ensuring critical medical supplies reach their destinations swiftly and efficiently and also help in the reduction of carbon emission via the reduction of road transportation.

Rev Dr Binu Kunnath, Director, CARiTAS Hospital, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "Drones are a game-changer for healthcare in Kottayam, helping us reach patients in remote areas much faster and more reliably. Whether it's delivering medicine, transporting lab samples, or providing medical equipment, these drones will improve

care in our community. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on healthcare in our region."

Dr Ajith Venugopalan, Chief Operating Officer (COO), CARiTAS Hospital described the importance of the drone facilities and the various processes by which it is going to benefit patient service and community."

Ankit Kumar, CEO & Founder, Skye Air Mobility, highlighted the impact of the collaboration, stating, "Our partnership with CARiTAS Hospital represents a significant step forward in the application of drone technology in healthcare. By establishing an aerial supply chain, we are not only reducing delivery times but also minimising costs and environmental impact. This initiative serves as a model for future healthcare logistics solutions across India."

The drone delivery programme is set to undergo a series of trial runs over the coming weeks, with plans for a full-scale rollout across Kottayam district in future. Both CARiTAS Hospital and Skye Air Mobility are committed to working closely with local authorities to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the drone delivery system, adhering to all relevant regulations and guidelines.