Drone deliveries, flying taxis and smarter emergency services could be a step closer to use in UK skies after the Government awarded almost £50 million to unlock growth in the drone and advanced air mobility sector.

Part of the £46.5 million investment will also see a crackdown on “faceless” drones, which can be used in suspicious or illegal activity, through the first bespoke drone identification system. The measures will make it easier for police to identify illegal or nuisance users and clear the way for legitimate drone operators.

Delivered through the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the funding will also cut red tape and support the regulatory, digital and security foundations needed to bring drones and advanced air mobility – such as electric flying taxis – into more routine use across the UK.