Futureproof: 21st Century Balconies
Future Narrative
Well, here it is, right on time. Many debated the merits of allowing aerial delivery by drones within city limits years ago, but now it is commonplace. Breakthroughs in drone safety and making them much quieter were key to growing acceptance. Now, units with balconies in New York command a premium over those without them due to the convenience of balcony delivery. Our city streets are much quieter and safer, with fewer delivery trucks double parking in the middle of the street to unload packages. There seems to be a bit more shade at street level too, offering more relief on hot summer days.
Technology
As drone technology becomes more efficient and quiet, companies like Amazon, FedEx, and Google will work with others to deliver packages directly to customers’ addresses via balconies or rooftop package locker facilities in cities.
Implications
Historically, approximately eighty-six percent of Amazon’s packages weigh less than five pounds. The FAA must work with various delivery companies to effectively stratify airspace for safe drone delivery. Municipalities will also have a hand in setting delivery and architectural amendment policies for those wishing to add balconies to their properties.
Related Links
Amazon Drone Update
FAA Advisory and Rulemaking Committees: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) Operations Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC)
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.