Urban aviation and drones

Drones are unmanned vehicles or vessels (air, land and sea drones) that are controlled remotely or operate partly autonomously. Drones come in different sizes and are built for various purposes, and they can be equipped with cameras, measuring instruments or lightweight transport solutions. 

This site focuses on air drones and their use in the urban environment.

The majority of air drones operate in the lower airspace, about 50 to 120 metres above the ground. This part of airspace has traditionally not been part of urban planning, but as drones become more common, it is becoming a new urban space. 

The use of lower airspace involves questions about safety, airspace control, coordination with other aviation, and impacts on the cityscape and comfort. The introduction of drones requires the proactive planning of flight routes as well as loading and landing sites, for example the roofs of public and commercial sites.

The electrification of urban logistics and the use of drones, delivery robots and electric cargo bikes can reduce emissions and noise compared to conventional car traffic. As a distribution solution, drones are low-emission and can complement other logistics in a dense urban structure, sparsely populated areas and the archipelago.  

Drones bring a new kind of sound to the urban environment. Their high-pitched buzzing and visibility in the urban space make them stand out from the usual soundscape. The flying of drones has to be planned so that it does not cause noise pollution for residents, and it is especially important to ensure a peaceful night-time soundscape. 

Drone flight operations are supervised by the aviation authority, and in the event of any incidents or close calls, the police and other authorities can also get involved. Drone operators have a duty to act safely and take the environment and people into account. To prevent disruptions, flights are planned in advance, flight times and routes are restricted, and the equipment is made increasingly quiet.

Drones are one aspect of all urban aviation, which also includes electric aviation. In the future, there may be a wide range of aircraft and services operating in the lower airspace, which will require controlled and safe development that is adapted to the urban structure. 

The city’s goal is to anticipate changes, ensure the safe use of airspace and support innovations in a way that promotes a sustainable and functional city.

Contact the city if you are a drone operator and want to discuss the use and development of drones in Espoo. The city is happy to engage in dialogue on the responsible and controlled promotion of drones.