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Drone Logistics Ecosystem is welcoming Florida-based drone delivery operator, Hartley Aerial

Updated: Oct 2, 2023


Drone Delivery Operator Hartley Aerial Joins DLE

11 Sep 2023


Saint Petersburg (FL), United States of America- Drone Logistics Ecosystem (DLE) is delighted to announce the membership of Hartley Aerial. A service-based unmanned aircraft system company that specializes in providing consulting, operational expertise, education and training. Hartley Aerial is committed to expanding the world of unmanned aircraft systems and drones for good. With a curated team of highly skilled operators, possessing technical knowledge combined with thousands of flight hours they represent some of the most talented pilots in the industry. Their collective experience spans a diverse range of applications such as disaster relief, construction mapping, utility inspections, live broadcast, and delivery. By applying insights from various disciplines they are constantly pushing the boundaries of what drones can achieve. The lessons learned in one sector can revolutionize another. In addition, Hartley Aerial is actively engaged in public speaking and community outreach initiatives, working to spread awareness about the immense potential of drones for the benefit of all people. Their membership in DLE underscores their dedication to advancing the drone logistics industry and promoting its positive impact on society.


"I see the drone delivery industry becoming a widespread reality within the next decade. The technology exists, the regulations and standardization will follow. Forget same-day delivery, we can achieve same-hour delivery. Grandma doesn’t need to drive to the store anymore for goods when it can be delivered. Unmanned aircrafts in the skies can reduce congestion below on the roads. Ultimately making a safer environment for all drivers and pedestrians. Our team is aiming to make this a reality by paving the way for safe drone delivery operations. We have culminated our knowledge over the past six years to apply them to new developing verticals such as delivery. Manned aviation has been called a tombstone technology and hopefully those lessons come a little less painful in unmanned aviation. It will take time and effort but we will get there. We are a group of lifelong learners who are always putting our skills to the test with boots on the ground and aircrafts above. The most important lessons are learned in the field so we will continue to be the ones putting power to props making it happen. With each mission contributing further to the standardization of remote delivery. Having an association like DLE is a great way to unite the industry toward this common goal." Mr. Wade Hartley, Owner and Chief Remote Pilot of Hartley Aerial.

Hartley Aerial was founded in 2017 by Wade Hartley, driven by a vision to expand production capabilities into the skies. What began as a means to provide his clients with more diversity in their video content quickly evolved into drones becoming the forefront of his business. A significant turning point for the company occurred after Hurricane Irma swept through Florida in September of 2017. Wade joined a fleet of contracted pilots across the state who were tasked with assessing the damage of the aftermath. This introduced Wade into the world of utility applications for drones and left him wondering, "Where else can drones help?" Fortunately, that question remains open-ended, as new and exciting applications for remote aviation continue to emerge such as delivery. We at Hartley Aerial have seen first hand that drones offer greater efficiency and safe practices for companies. Our operators are committed to exploring these opportunities and sharing the benefits with our local community. Leading by example of what excellent remote piloting looks like.




Drone Logistics Ecosystem


DLE is a global/virtual network of Companies, Universities, the Public/Governments, and Investors operating in the drone logistics industry. The aim of the DLE is to bring together stakeholders to collaborate to stimulate standardization in this rapidly emerging industry. Hence, accelerating cross-border marketing and commercialization of products and services of its members. Since most of the companies in this industry are early-stage start-ups with limited access to funding, manpower and expertise, DLE is the ideal platform for companies to share their expertise to co-develop products and services and/or acquire necessary cross-border market access in partnership with other members.

Drone Logistics Ecosystem Worldwide Members

In the past 2 years, DLE has expanded to include 53 organizations, consisting of 49 companies, 2 universities and world's largest drone association, Japan UAS Industrial Development Association, across 23 different countries. In a short period of time, we have been able to generate several international proof-of-concept projects with a few commercialization prospects in the pipeline. The pandemic has restricted our movement and DLE has been a great tool for our members to streamline communication and product development. We are in the process to create a commercialization model to help our members reach the market faster in partnership with other members.

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