Skye Air Mobility, a leading drone technology-based logistics firm, has partnered with CARiTAS Hospital & Institute of Health Sciences, Kottayam, Kerala.
The company in a press statement on Friday said that the collaboration aims to revolutionise medical deliveries in the region by employing drone technology to transport essential medical supplies and diagnostic samples. This initiative marks the launch of the Caritas Drone Medical Supply Delivery Unit, the first of its kind in South Kerala.
The drone delivery system will enable the transport of payloads up to 3 kilograms over distances ranging from 10 to 15 kilometers, connecting CARiTAS Hospital with its satellite healthcare facilities, including Caritas Family Hospital and CARiTAS KMM. The system is designed to significantly reduce delivery times from hours to just 5-7 minutes, ensuring that critical medical supplies reach their destinations swiftly and efficiently. This initiative also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions associated with road transportation.
For over six decades, Caritas Hospital & Institute of Health Sciences has been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, continually striving to enhance patient care with cutting-edge technologies. With five satellite centers offering inpatient, outpatient, pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, and supportive services, CARiTAS Hospital remains committed to reaching patients more effectively.
During the inaugural ceremony, attended by local dignitaries and healthcare professionals, the first drone flight successfully transported a package of vital medicines from CARiTAS Hospital to Caritas Family Hospital and CARiTAS KMM, located 10-15 kilometers away.
Rev. Dr. Binu Kunnath, Director of CARiTAS Hospital, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We're excited to work with Skye Air Mobility on this initiative. Drones are a game-changer for healthcare in Kottayam, enabling us to reach patients in remote areas faster and more reliably. Whether it's delivering medicine, transporting lab samples, or providing medical equipment, these drones will significantly improve care in our community."
MLA Shri Mons Joseph, the Chief Guest at the event, praised the initiative, saying, "This is a big step forward for healthcare in Kerala. This drone program demonstrates our commitment to using new technologies to benefit our people. Drones can deliver critical medication to remote areas in minutes, which can be life-saving. I commend CARiTAS Hospital and Skye Air Mobility for their forward-thinking approach, and I’m eager to see this program expand across Kerala."
Ankit Kumar, CEO & Founder of Skye Air Mobility, highlighted the partnership's impact: "Our collaboration with CARiTAS Hospital represents a significant advancement in applying drone technology to healthcare. By establishing an aerial supply chain, we are not only reducing delivery times but also minimizing costs and environmental impact. This initiative sets a model for future healthcare logistics solutions across India."
The drone delivery program is set to undergo several trial runs in the coming weeks, with plans for a full-scale rollout across Kottayam district shortly. Both CARiTAS Hospital and Skye Air Mobility are dedicated to working closely with local authorities to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the drone delivery system, adhering to all relevant regulations and guidelines.
