'Innovative' drone transport trial underway on Isle of Wight
The trial is testing whether using drones to transport goods to the Island is faster and greener
A six-month trial - which will see commercial goods flown by drone to the Isle of Wight - is underway.
Southampton-based Inteliports are looking at whether using drones is a faster and greener alternative to crossing the Solent than using ferries.
All goods transported will land at an autonomous hub in Cowes, before being transported across the island via e-bike couriers.
Reduced dependence on ferries 'really attractive' to Council leader
Isle of Wight Council leader Phil Jordan told Greatest Hits Radio the trial could open up "a whole avenue of opportunities."
"Everything comes on and off the island by ferries, and we are extraordinarily dependent on that."
"An idea that none of that could impede some deliveries of things, like goods and vital medications, is really attractive to us."
"We export stuff from our island as well, so the future looks bright as well as goods off the island as well."