In a groundbreaking move towards the future of aviation logistics, Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport successfully completed a low-altitude flight test on July 26. This innovative test explored the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into the busy civil aviation airspace of one of China’s major hubs.
The ambitious test simulated an urgent baggage delivery scenario, where luggage was transported from the airport to the city of Zhongshan across the Pearl River Delta. After arriving at Shenzhen Bao'an, the baggage was swiftly transferred to a nearby drone take-off point. A logistics drone then covered the 50-kilometer journey to an airport hub in Zhongshan in just 25 minutes, showcasing the potential for rapid and efficient baggage handling.
The test flight took place within the airport's controlled airspace, traditionally reserved for civil aviation passenger and cargo flights. According to an official from Shenzhen Airport Group, the success of this operation validates the feasibility of drone integration in such a complex environment, laying the groundwork for future routine integrated flights.
Chen Xiaohui, director of government affairs at Phoenix Wings, the company operating the drone, emphasized the test's importance for the development of low-altitude logistics. By effectively connecting high-altitude civil aviation cargo flights with low-altitude logistics drones, the efficiency of logistics transportation is set to be significantly enhanced.
This pioneering effort was announced by Shenzhen Airport Group during the High-Quality Development Conference of the Low-Altitude Economy in Shenzhen, highlighting the city’s role as a leader in innovative aviation solutions.
Reference(s):
Low-altitude flight boosts baggage delivery in Shenzhen airport area
cgtn.com
