Posted in Energy & Transport

Toyota Group Conducts Level 4 Drone Delivery Trials to Remote Islands in Japan

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TOYOTA GROUP TESTS LEVEL 4 DRONE DELIVERIES TO REMOTE JAPANESE ISLANDS

March 28, 2025 by Miriam McNabb

Sora-Iina and Toyota Tsusho Innovate Autonomous Medication Delivery

Toyota Tsusho Corporation, part of the Toyota Group, in partnership with its drone logistics subsidiary Sora-iina Co., has announced a successful demonstration of Level 4 drone delivery capabilities for medications to the isolated Gotō Islands. While the companies had previously utilized drones to supply prescription medications since 2022, these flights were classified as Level 3, requiring patients to collect their medications from designated drone ports.

The introduction of Level 4 flight capabilities allows for direct home delivery, significantly easing logistics for elderly patients who may have difficulty traveling. Currently, mobile clinics provide prescriptions, but medications still require next-day delivery by couriers due to existing regulations. The new autonomous drone system allows direct transport from the pharmacy to the mobile clinic, providing patients immediate access with minimal human contact.

This initiative was conducted in collaboration with Nagasaki Prefecture’s government, Tamanoura Clinic, and Nagasaki University. The ACSL PF2-CAT3, Japan’s first drone cleared for fully autonomous Level 4 operations, was deployed for these flights. This drone has been involved in various medical delivery trials across the country, including a project last year aimed at addressing the challenges of timely delivery of medical supplies in Tokyo’s heavy traffic. The compact PF2 model is designed for short distances, with a maximum payload of 1.5 kg and a flight duration of up to 15 minutes.

Looking ahead, Toyota Tsusho and Sora-iina aim to obtain the necessary approvals to transition this demonstration into regular operations, enhancing access to essential medications for residents of the Gotō Islands. Ongoing tests will continue to explore the potential of drones in supporting Japan’s aging population and its healthcare system.

For additional details, including the original press release, click here (in Japanese).

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