Easyjet is developing unmanned drones to inspect its aircraft for external faults or issues, with testing coming in the coming months.

The flying machines are being developed in conjunction with a team from the University of Bristol, are part of moves to develop the airline’s ‘paperless plane’ strategy which also includes virtual reality video technology and apps to help with maintenance issues.

"We have examined and assessed cutting edge technology across many different industries and are now applying a range of new technologies to the aviation sector for the first time to help us run our fleet of aircraft more effectively, efficiently and safely," said chief executive Carolyn McCall.