Attitudes towards Urban Air Mobility for E-Commerce Deliveries: An Exploratory Survey Comparing European Regions

Abstract

This study explores attitudes towards urban air mobility (UAM) for e-commerce deliveries. UAM, which utilizes drones, has the potential to revolutionize transport services and logistics, leading to economic benefits and reductions in congestion and pollution. However, public acceptance is crucial for a successful implementation; thus, understanding the people’s perspective is key. Descriptive statistics were employed to evaluate survey results from three different European regions, followed by a cluster analysis to define potential user profiles. This study revealed slightly different perceptions towards UAM between the analyzed regions, but also a generally positive attitude. The most important expected identified benefits from UAM were a decrease in congestion and pollution in city centers. High-acceptance segments are gender-balanced and correspond mostly to active population and frequent online shoppers that perceive value in drone deliveries, especially related to an increased convenience and speed. They support public investment in UAM and are willing to pay more for these services and to have their home flown over. Opposite attitudes were expressed by low-acceptance segments, which are female-dominated and include mostly non-frequent online shoppers. The identified user profiles in this study can support the development of public policy and marketing strategies to increase acceptance and adoption.