After overcoming regulatory hurdles that delayed its 2024 launch, Luxembourg's first medical transport drone took to the skies Thursday morning.
The Griffin Project, Luxembourg's first medical drone transport system, commenced operations Thursday morning with its inaugural flight carrying blood samples from Kirchberg to Junglinster. The 20kg drone, with a 2.70m wingspan, completed the 10 minute journey at 100km/h within a strictly monitored air corridor.
Dr Marc Berna of Hôpitaux Robert Schuman highlighted the breakthrough nature of the initiative, noting the system's ability to bypass road traffic for time-sensitive medical deliveries. While originally planned for 2024, the launch was delayed due to regulatory approvals rather than technical issues.
Jérôme Pin, Assistant Director General of Air Rescue, pointed out that the flying times are very restricted. As the route is so close to the airport, they are only permitted to fly between 7am and 9.30am, once a week. Trips will therefore have to take place either on a Wednesday or a Thursday, according to Pin.
The fully automated system features QR code-guided landings and continuous flight monitoring, enabling quick return trips. The Ministry of Mobility's ongoing drone strategy development incorporates these medical transport trials as it evaluates broader applications for the technology.
The Griffin Project was co-founded in 2023 by Air Rescue, Laboratoires Réunis, POST Luxembourg, and Santé Service.
