The first Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) approved parcel delivery by drone successfully took place on Saturday 28 January, in Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin.

The flight was organised by ten-year old Belle Moore as part of her project on drones for the Intel Mini Scientist Competition.

During the 2min flight, the drone delivered a 250g parcel from the shoreline to a boat at sea almost 200m away in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.

"Whatever procedures are introduced in the future must guarantee the safety of manned aviation and the safety of people on the ground in urban areas.”

Fixed to the underside of the drone in a waterproof container, the parcel includes medical supplies such as an emergency thermal blanket, an Epi-pen, bandages, plasters, thermometer, first aid leaflet, gloves, wipes and burn dressings.

IAA safety regulation director Ralph James said: “We’re delighted with the success of the first official parcel delivery in Ireland via drone under controlled conditions, which met all regulatory requirements.

“The application of drone technology is vast and the IAA will continue to foster, promote and encourage its use with the emphasis, as always, on safety.

“A significant amount of research is taking place all over the world to design systems, which will enable drones to safely integrate with manned aviation.

“Drone delivery systems is one such application. Whatever procedures are introduced in the future must guarantee the safety of manned aviation and the safety of people on the ground in urban areas.”

FlyRyte Drone and Pony Express Couriers were also involved in the recently conducted flight.

Image: Flight of the drone delivering parcel in Ireland. Photo: courtesy of Irish Aviation Authority.