Past projects similar to this one have not experienced any negative interactions between drones and local wildlife. Generally, given the relatively large size of DDC's Sparrow drone, birds and other small animals typically stay clear of the drone while it is in flight. The drone flies at a low enough speed that birds can avoid it if necessary.

Additionally, security cameras are mounted at both landing sites (DroneSpot™), pointing only at the landing area. The video feed will be monitored by the Operations Control Centre to ensure the take-off/landing area is clear of both people and wildlife prior to take-off / landing.

The drone and landing site (DroneSpot™) communicate over multiple forms of communication including cellular signals and VHF frequency. 

The drone can operate day or night, and in weather conditions that include moderate rain, snow and wind. 

Approximately 200 feet above the ground.

No. The drone will fly on a pre-programmed and fixed flight path. 

• Cargo/drone handlers: One cargo/drone handler will be located at each landing site. They are responsible for bringing cargo to the landing sites (DroneSpots™), loading and unloading cargo into the drone, and may perform pre-flight inspections and other maintenance tasks as applicable.
• Safety Pilots: There is one Safety Pilot at each landing site. The safety pilot is present to ensure everything is operating as designed and can take over if necessary.
• Visual Observer: This person is a trained crew member who assists the pilot in ensuing the safe conduct of a flight under visual line-of-sight. The Visual Observer will be positioned outside at a location where they can see the drone during the entire duration o fits flight between the landing site at DSV Milton and the landing site at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital.

The drone can carry up to 9 lbs (4kgs). The package cannot exceed 12 inches long x 9 inches wide x 6 inches tall.

The project will take a phased implementation. At first, the drone will carry supplies and “dummy” samples standing in for real test samples and medications. Once early flights are successful, the project can transition to transporting “real” lab samples and medications.

Generally, the drones fly well below altitudes of other types of manned aircraft. However, DDC’s system constantly monitors all commercial aircraft activity, and manned aircraft always have the right of way. DDC has also been working with OTMH and Orange to establish a process to ensure no conflict between drones and Heliport traffic.