Atlanta-based United Parcel Service Inc. (NYSE: UPS) has asked the Federal Aviation Administration for permission to form a new drone delivery service.
The global logistics company said it has filed for Part 135 certification, which would allow PS to fly an unlimited number of drones beyond line of sight and at night, using an unlimited number of operators. Approval would allow the drone aircraft fleet to operate like a private jet service, under a new division called UPS Flight Forward Inc.
UPS and partner Matternet currently operate special drone healthcare deliveries of medical samples under FAA Part 107 rules at WakeMed hospitals in Raleigh, N.C. Part 135 certification would pave the way for service expansions to several other U.S. healthcare networks that have expressed interest in similar services, the company said.
