Drones to the rescue? Exploring rescue workers' behavioral intention to adopt drones in mountain rescue missions

Purpose Mountaineering and related activities are increasingly becoming popular accompanied by an increase in medical incidents. Emergency operations mountainous terrain time-critical often pose major logistical challenges for rescuers. Drones expected to improve the operational performance of mountain However, they not yet widely used rescue missions. This paper examines determinants that drive behavioral intention rescuers adopt drones Design/methodology/approach is a study builds upon extended model unified theory acceptance use technology (UTAUT) investigates relationship between individual attitudes, perceptions, intentions drone adoption. Original survey data 146 were analyzed using moderated ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis. Findings Results indicate missions driven gains facilitating conditions. Favorable supporting conditions experience with further moderate expectancy intention. The effects effort expectancy, social influence, demonstrations significant. Practical implications Rescue organizations stakeholders recommended consider identified implementation emergency logistics. Drone manufacturers targeting advised focus on performance, provide sufficient support training, promote gathering practical experience. Originality/value A tailored-model provides first empirical results relevance personal environmental factors logistics presented.