The UK Government has announced £4.4 million in funding for cutting-edge aviation technology projects, including heavy-lift unmanned aircraft and drone delivery networks.

UK Backs Future of Aviation with Future Flight Programme

Delivered through the Future Flight Programme by Innovate UK, the £4.4 million funding is aimed at speeding up the zero-emission aviation technologies and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).

The initiative aligns with Government’s broader Plan for Change, which focuses on creating high-skilled jobs, regional economic growth and sustainable transport. Officials say such innovations are critical to strengthening the UK’s leadership in aerospace while building greener transport systems.

Drone Deliveries for the NHS

Among the funding recipients is Apian, a healthcare drone logistics company, whose London Health Bridge Project will expand its network from 1,000 to 50,000 medical deliveries per month in the UK.

These medical deliveries will include urgent blood and pathology samples for the NHS.

Louisa Smith, Chief Aviation Officer at Apian, welcomed the announcement, saying: “This funding will enable us to develop multiple simultaneous operations across our NHS network in London. It marks a vital step towards scaled, low-cost drone deliveries that improve productivity and resilience while reducing emissions.”

Conservation and Offshore Innovation

Led by AutoSpray Systems, the Beyond Restoration project also secured funding. Working with the National Trust and the Woodland Trust, the project will use heavy-lift drones to deliver ecological materials to remote and environmentally sensitive areas.

Andy Sproson, COO of AutoSpray Systems stated,

“Our project will apply innovation to vital conservation schemes, restoring landscapes with efficiency and scale.”

He added that pioneering large-scale operations would also create a skilled workforce for a growing industry in the UK.

Elsewhere, a Scottish pilot project will trial heavy-lift drones for offshore wind farm cargo delivery, aiming to cut both costs and delays in remote logistics.

Securing UK’s Aerospace Leadership

UK Aviation Minister Keri Mather said the funding would help “reshape how we live and work” while supporting high-quality jobs across the country.

The projects also tie into wider government commitments, including a £2.3 billion investment in the Aerospace Technology Institute and upcoming legislation on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Deputy Challenge Director for Future Flight at Innovate UK, Simon Masters said:

“By focusing on regional adoption, we aim to drive faster, more impactful growth and societal benefits for communities across the UK.”