SkyRights says the airspace above railways offers a safe and secure corridor to fly delivery drones compared with routes above populated areas, while the market for drone delivery services pioneered by Amazon, Google, Fedex and Walmart is transforming freight logistics and transport. “McKinsey estimates that $US 3bn has already been invested in new drone technology and upwards of $US 20bn of new value will be created by 2026,” the company says.

“Although Congress will probably create a low-altitude zone for drone aviation it does not address the safety issues with flying above populated areas,” says Mr David Christophersen, CEO of SkyRights. “Railways have air rights that offer a network including trackside electric infrastructure for charging drone aircraft. This is an exciting new opportunity to market railroad assets to drone delivery leaders like Amazon and Walmart who typically have distribution facilities close to major rail lines.”

SkyRights is looking to form partnerships with railways willing to monetise the air rights above their tracks for commercial drone operation.