Public support for drones in the UK reaches new heights

Public support for the use of drones is growing, according to research conducted by the air traffic service, NATS. 

Figures in the latest edition of the Aviation Index – NATS’ annual survey of the UK public carried out by Ipsos – show that drones are increasingly seen as valuable, practical tools for delivering essential services. 

The UK public expressed support for the use of drones for emergency response, with 86 per cent voicing approval, up from 76 per cent in 2024. Likewise drones for infrastructure inspections were welcomed by 81 per cent, up from 71 per cent in 2024. The use of drones for delivery services was also supported 58 per cent of respondents. 

In 2021, just 29 per cent of people told NATS they believed the benefits of drones outweighed the negatives. These latest figures demonstrate how far public opinion has shifted as the application of drones has grown. Today, drones are being routinely used for everything from delivering blood samples for the NHS over Central London, to measuring oil and gas rig emissions in the North Sea .   

Similarly, openness to advanced air mobility solutions has grown, with 40 per cent of people saying they would likely take a flying taxi if available, up from 34 per cent in 2024. Of those who were unwilling, safety and cost were highlighted as the main reservations, but the upward trend in acceptance could signal a shift in attitudes.

Richard Ellis, Director of New Airspace Users at NATS Services, said: “Growing public support is a testament to the innovative operators who are leveraging these technologies to deliver safer, greener, and more efficient services across various applications. 

“The challenge now is to enable these pioneers to scale and grow safely, integrating them seamlessly with existing airspace users. I believe the technologies and operational concepts we are developing are part of the solution, and we are excited to be contributing to a bright future.”These latest Aviation Index figures come ahead of DroneX – Europe’s leading drone business conference and exhibition. As a key sponsor, NATS will be demonstrating how it is collaborating with the rest of the industry to deliver safe and scalable integrated drone operations in the UK. 

DroneX will be held at the Excel in London from 30 September until 1 October. 

The full results of the latest NATS Aviation Index are available to download at nats.aero/aviation-index-2025