The initiative came about after the US distribution giant Amazon declared its interest in using drones for sending its packages. While only a short while ago such a possibility might have seemed like something out of a science fiction movie, it seems that delivery by drone is now feasible, and the idea is creating great interest among companies and postal services around the world.

It should come as no surprise that Switzerland should opt for this new system – this new technology means that the service can access hard-to-reach geographical areas, and above all ensure the arrival of special urgent deliveries. Matternet, the California-based drone manufacturer, has been a crucial part of this project. Andreas Raptopoulus, the company’s founder, first had the idea of building drones after a trip to Papua Nova Guinea. During his journey, he saw how difficult it was to distribute vital products, such as medicines, in the region. He immediately began work on a system that uses technology to meet human needs, and his drones now transport diagnostic equipment for tuberculosis throughout the country.

The “postmen” in this case are the Matternet ONE package delivery models. At present they can only carry a load of approximately 1 kilogram and can travel a maximum of 15 km, following a predefined, pre-programmed route.

And so, just when it seemed that the digital age was about to do away with the postal service, new distribution and delivery initiatives are emerging that are adapting and reinventing the sector. Will we soon be seeing new issues of stamps featuring images of drones? No doubt, it will all come in due time.