Secured loan packager Y3S is in discussions to adopt a new type of technology to assist with the rapid deployment of documents to and from the homes of its loan applicants.
The firm is in talks with an American drone supplier and a new organisation which will control future drone traffic over British airspace, with a view to integrate the technology into its loan packaging business as soon as it becomes legally possible to do so.
Under current Civil Aviation Authority rules, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are not allowed to operate in the UK outside of military boundaries but it is anticipated that in the near future the law will change to allow businesses to use the technology within a few years.
If successful, Y3S says it will be able deploy drones to its clients within 30 minutes of a successful loan application being made. Documents will be enclosed within a waterproof package below the drone, which is capable of delivering loads of up to 2.5kg within a 100 mile radius in all weather. The drones fly at around 220 feet and use a combination of Google Maps and GPS co-ordination technology to deliver the packages to properties where there is sufficient privately-owned outdoor space, such as a lawn or driveway.
Once the client has signed and enclosed their loan documentation, the drone will return to head office or any pre-programmed destination.
“This is the most exciting development for Y3S in recent years,” said director Matt Cottle. “Although it may seem like a pipe dream, autonomous commercial drone technology is developing at a rapid pace and it’s getting cheaper, with craft able to fly further than ever before.
“One of our greatest USP’s is our free nationwide document courier service. As soon as the law is updated to allow for drone traffic we will be ready to bring this additonal service to our clients.”