Management of urban air logistics with unmanned aerial vehicles: The case of medicine supply in Aveiro, Portugal

Abstract

Purpose: This research aims to investigate the relation between urban logistics and all delivery systems used. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and the unmanned aerial system (UAS) have been under investigation in the world of logistics, having been pointed as the next logistic technology. For that reason, this article proposes the use of UAV in urban logistics. Design/methodology: We set for the methodology study the current state of this system and analyze what lies ahead soon. Based on this information, we intend to implement a scenario of deliveries in an urban environment. This scenario will be in the city of Aveiro and consists of the delivery of medicines into pharmacies located in an urban environment. With this study, we pretend to find the best current and future solution to operate in an urban environment, with the conventional vehicle or the UAV/UAS. Findings: The legal implications for the use of UAV/UAS are one important factor that can set back the use of these technologies due to the lack of legislation. Although this technology has some limitations in endurance and payload, this investigation reached a consensus in the use of UAV for logistics in urban areas, in small payloads (around 15 kg), and low endurance (around 25 min). The UAV/UAS brings excellent advantages that the conventional vehicle cannot overcome: direct routes; traffic congestion; and environmental legislation. Practical implications: This study brings an overview of a possible scenario for urban logistics. Although this is currently not possible, soon, this scenario could be implemented. This would bring a reduction in operation costs and reduce the congestion in the urban cores of the cities. Originality/value: Based on this research, this delivery system could, in the future, help and be the starting point for UAV/UAS logistics, specifically in the delivery of medicines.