Drone Delivery Firm Set to Deliver a Letter of Endorsement to City Council Members
In the bustling suburbs of Dublin 15, drone delivery service Manna has been a noticeable presence, having completed over 36,000 deliveries in the area over the past 18 months. From food and coffee to books and clothing, Manna's drones have been a convenient addition to local life. However, the service has not been without controversy.
The lack of comprehensive and clear regulations for commercial drone delivery services, including Manna in Dublin 15, has been a significant concern. The anticipated National Commercial Drone Policy Framework, originally slated for publication in 2023, remains unpublished, leaving a regulatory "wild west" situation where drones operate without proper planning regulations concerning privacy, security, and noise management[1][4]. This regulatory vacuum has made coordinated oversight challenging for local authorities.
Manna's drones have been flying at altitudes of 50 to 65 meters and reaching speeds of 60 km/h, aiming for under three-minute deliveries near Blanchardstown Centre[2]. However, the company's operations have faced public criticism and concern from members of the Oireachtas regarding noise pollution caused by their drones[2]. In response, Manna has developed quieter drone technology, which, when approved by the Irish Aviation Authority, is expected to reduce noise by about 40%. These quieter drones fly higher (about 80 meters) and produce noise levels comparable to or quieter than a normal conversation, a move intended to improve public acceptance[2].
Public perception in Dublin 15 appears mixed but includes significant concern over noise and privacy. Residents feel that the lack of official regulations allows drones to "invade" personal space without accountability[1][4]. Complaints about noise pollution have been vocal enough to be raised in the Oireachtas transport committee, influencing Manna's push for quieter technology[2].
Manna CEO Bobby Healy has been actively engaging with local representatives and residents in Dublin 15, with 112 of them being from Dublin 15 Eircodes. He has emphasised the benefits of Manna's service, stating that a significant number of people in the area value and use it[2]. In fact, Manna has received 1,883 positive customer reviews from residents who have utilised the drone delivery service.
Meanwhile, Labour Councillor John Walsh has launched an online petition calling for the Government to regulate commercial drone delivery services due to their impact on communities in Dublin 15. The petition has gathered almost 900 signatures. People Before Profit TD Ruth Coppinger has also expressed concerns about drones invading gardens in her constituency of Dublin West, claiming that residents have been dramatically impacted by deliveries[3].
Despite the concerns, Manna's all-electric drones are over 99% more carbon-efficient than cars and vans, as stated by Manna[2]. The company's drone delivery service has the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and traffic on the roads, according to Manna.
As the regulatory landscape for drone delivery services in Ireland remains unclear, it is evident that finalising the National Commercial Drone Policy Framework is crucial to ensure that commercial drone services can operate safely, respectfully, and sustainably within communities like Dublin 15. Manna is presenting a letter of support for its services, signed by over 400 residents in Dublin 15, to local representatives, demonstrating the support the service has within the community.
The anticipated National Commercial Drone Policy Framework, intended for publication in 2023, is yet unpublished, leading to a regulatory "wild west" situation where drone delivery services like Manna in Dublin 15 operate without proper planning regulations concerning noise management, privacy, and security. On the other hand, Manna's all-electric drones are over 99% more carbon-efficient compared to cars and vans, showcasing their potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions and traffic on the roads.
