SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — One day in the not-too-distant future, drones ferrying medical supplies, packages and even pizza could be crisscrossing the skies.

But how to prevent those unmanned fliers from creating atmospheric traffic jams?

Student developers at the University of Utah have been working with the Utah Department of Transportation on an early version of an idea unveiled Wednesday: video games.

The simulation uses a 3-D model of Salt Lake City and data about planned drone paths to determine potential problem areas.

State regulators plan to use the game as they work with the Federal Aviation Administration to develop a way to allow drones to operate safely over populated areas.

Although widespread use of commercial drones over U.S. cities is likely years away, companies are already testing drone deliveries in several locations.