An association of domestic manufacturers of industrial-use drones will launch a safety certification system for unmanned aerial vehicles by the end of this year, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned.
At a time when drone-related markets are rapidly growing, the Japan Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Association (JUAV) hopes that by highlighting the excellent safety of Japanese drones it will enable domestic manufacturers to survive the intensifying competition in a market with comparatively cheaper models made in China and other countries.
Over 40 Japanese companies, including industrial-use drone makers Subaru Corp., Hitachi, Ltd. and Yamaha Motor Co., are members of JUAV. Each drone model that meets certain safety standards established by the association will be certified and publicly announced.
Drones eligible for certification must meet conditions including a function that enables the operator to forcibly implement an emergency landing if the drone malfunctions, and the manufacturer confirming that drones will be checked at least once a year by a mechanic. The safety of the drones will be determined not only by inspections based on material submitted by manufacturers but also by aviation-related experts that have checked performances in-flight.
According to the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry, 62 accidents involving unmanned flying vehicles -- including drones -- were reported in fiscal 2017, an about fivefold increase from fiscal 2015. To improve drone safety, the ministry urges operators to regularly inspect and maintain their drones, and also take out insurance that covers medical and other costs that could arise in the event of an accident resulting in injury or damage to property.
Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Insurance Inc. reportedly will offer insurance with premiums set comparatively cheaper for drones with JUAV certification.
Demand for drones is forecast to grow in fields including goods delivery, spraying pesticides and checking infrastructure. According to research company Impress Corp., related markets are expected to grow from 50.3 billion yen in 2017 to 262.1 billion yen in 2022.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
