Skyfarer

Skyfarer Limited provides comprehensive drone services, focusing on Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for logistics, inspection, and surveillance. The company operates on a Drones as a Service (DRaaS) business model, offering businesses a subscription-based solution that includes drone technology, software, maintenance, and operational support, thereby removing the need for significant capital investment and in-house expertise. Revenue is generated by licensing its proprietary software system and contracting one-off or routine flights managed from a centralized operational hub.

Founded in 2017 by Elliot Parnham, who developed the concept while studying Aerospace Engineering at Coventry University, Skyfarer initially aimed to use drones for delivering vital medical supplies. Parnham's background in aerospace engineering and a desire to create a business with a societal impact drove the company's formation. A key pivot early in the company's history was shifting from manufacturing drones to integrating existing systems and technologies to provide a complete operational service. A significant milestone was the 2022 Medical Logistics UK trial, which established a 32km drone corridor between NHS hospitals in Coventry and Rugby to conduct medical deliveries. This trial was part of the broader 'Skyway' project, a 165-mile drone superhighway connecting major UK cities, with Skyfarer as the lead operator for the initial phase.

Skyfarer primarily serves the healthcare sector by transporting time-sensitive medical supplies like blood, vaccines, and samples for clients such as the NHS. Its services have since expanded to include emergency response support and commercial inspections. The company leads a consortium of partners, including major technology and telecommunications firms like O2, to advance its drone network infrastructure. By utilizing electric drones, Skyfarer also promotes a more sustainable, zero-emission alternative to traditional road transport.

Keywords: Drones as a Service, DRaaS, BVLOS, autonomous drone delivery, medical logistics, unmanned aerial vehicles, UAV, drone superhighway, aerial surveillance, drone inspection, logistics technology, aerospace engineering, sustainable logistics, NHS drone delivery, hub-centric network, Coventry, Elliot Parnham, beyond visual line of sight, unmanned traffic management, asset management