Transport Ministry gives green light to drone delivery

Korea will allow drones to fly at night and deliver packages long distance when users meet safety requirements, the Transport Ministry said Thursday.

To get approval, users should submit a drone’s capacity and manual as well as its flight plan and emergency manual, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said.

The Korea Institute of Aviation Safety Technology will conduct safety tests on the drone and the Transport Ministry will make a decision based on their operational level and flight environment.

The ministry said the latest measure is aimed at supporting the fast-growing drone industry, which needs more space for tests in various environments.

The ministry vowed to revise the legal framework to catch up with the latest technology trends and establish a test site to meet growing drone pilot license demand.

YONHAP