Hamamatsu City has launched Japan's first drone delivery service that operates without visual contact, enabling much greater delivery areas. The service is led by HMK Nexus, a logistics subsidiary of Hamakyorex, using VTOL drones made by Aerosense and AI control systems by Trajectory.

On February 25th a demonstration was held, delivering prescription medicine to the Kamiaiko district, which is about 10km away from the city center.

In a region with a population of around 800, many of whom are elderly, the region hopes that this will enable a speedy supply of medicines that would have been difficult to deliver before. The service charges have been kept low, with delivery fees only costing 430 yen (under US$3).

As drone load capacity increases, future uses of the technology are expected to include delivery of goods other than medicines and for disaster relief.

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