International Testing Agency tests drone blood sample delivery in Alaska

The International Testing Agency (ITA) conducted an experimental 1,000-kilometre drone flight in Alaska to test the feasibility of transporting anti-doping blood samples over long distances. The flight, which took place on August 19 from Nenana, utilized a heavy-duty autonomous aircraft manufactured by Windracers with support from the Alaska Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration (ACUASI).

To ensure scientific accuracy, researchers used sensors to monitor temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, vibrations, and acceleration throughout the journey. The study compares blood samples transported by drone against a control group to determine if flight conditions affect critical biomarkers, such as white and red blood cell populations, which are essential for an athlete’s biological passport.

ITA Director General Benjamin Cohen stated that the goal is to evaluate whether drone technology can serve as a reliable additional transport option, particularly for remote or challenging terrain where traditional methods may be slow or unpredictable. The agency emphasized that this technology is intended to complement, rather than replace, existing transport methods.