New drone route launched in Zhoushan

An FCourier's E40 drone. [Photo/WeChat account: zjzsqdxq]

A new drone route was launched on March 11, connecting Daishan Zhuyu Passenger Transport Center and Jinhai Bay in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province. The route was inaugurated with a large fixed-wing drone taking off from the passenger transport center's drone landing pad.

The drone, an E40 model from FCourier — a company based in Zhongshan, Guangdong province — boasts a maximum range of 100 kilometers and can carry up to 50 kilograms. It has already been tested in real-world rescue operations, including large-scale disaster relief missions, and is designed to fly even in extreme weather conditions.

Zhoushan's scattered islands and long coastline make traditional transportation methods vulnerable to natural conditions such as sea winds and tides. Previously, transportation relied heavily on waterways, leading to delays and disruptions during severe weather. The new drone route offers a more efficient and secure solution, cutting transportation time from over an hour to about 10 minutes.

This new route is part of Zhoushan's broader strategy to develop its low-altitude economy, spanning logistics, maritime services, ocean management, and tourism. Since 2024, the city has launched 26 aerial application scenarios, completing over 5,000 flights and delivering 15,000 kg of goods.