Public Perception of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

This study explored public risk perception of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for civilian commercial operations, including cargo and passenger transportation. Civilian operators are considering the use of UAVs to increase safety while reducing labor costs, but negative perceptions may delay the advancement of these aircraft. To document perception of UAV or UAS aircraft for commercial operations, a questionnaire was distributed to adults (ages 18+) who use commercial air travel. The survey classified age group, gender, and UAV familiarity as demographic variables. This study assessed risk perception of UAVs and its correlation to the variables through statistical analysis to identify whether there was an association between the demographic variables and risk perception. Upon analysis, it was determined that the data from the sample showed no strong evidence that demographic variables influenced risk perception. Many respondents’ risks perceptions involved technology reliability and higher perceived safety with a human pilot onboard.