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Writer's pictureTeesha Kukreja

DTDC Express Launches Drone-Based Deliveries: Revolutionizing Last-Mile Logistics in India


DTDC's Drone Delivery

Image: DTDC's Drone Delivery

Image courtesy: siliconIndia

 

DTDC Express Ltd's groundbreaking partnership with Skye Air Mobility, marking a significant advancement in last-mile delivery solutions.


The debut of drone deliveries, its impact on the logistics industry, and the future expansion plans of DTDC this development promises to enhance delivery speed, reduce carbon emissions, and set new standards in the industry.


Introduction


DTDC Express Ltd, a top player in India's logistics sector, is marking its 35th anniversary with a game-changing initiative: drone-based deliveries.


Partnering with Skye Air Mobility, DTDC is embracing cutting-edge technology to enhance last-mile delivery, making it faster and more sustainable.



First Drone Delivery Success


The first successful drone delivery took place from Bilaspur to Gurgaon Sector 92, covering 7.5 km in just 3-4 minutes, a significant improvement over the usual 15-minute road journey.


This milestone demonstrates DTDC's commitment to leveraging new technology for better service.



Expanding the Drone Delivery Network


Building on its extensive network of over 16,000 channel partners, DTDC plans to extend drone deliveries across India.


This initiative aims to optimize the handling of approximately 155 million parcels annually, ensuring quicker and more reliable service for customers.


Environmental Benefits and Future Plans


Drone deliveries not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to eco-friendly logistics by reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion.


Each drone delivery can save over 520 grams of CO2 compared to traditional methods. Following the successful launch in Gurgaon, DTDC is identifying other strategic locations to maximize the impact of drone deliveries.



Leadership Insights


Abhishek Chakraborty

Image: Abhishek Chakraborty, DTDC Express

Image Courtesy: Best Media Info


Abhishek Chakraborty, CEO of DTDC Express Ltd, Said,

"As we commence the 35th year of DTDC’s journey, our strategic partnership with Skye Air marks a significant milestone in setting new benchmarks for last-mile delivery. The partnership aims to address the evolving logistics landscape, driven by digitalization and changing consumer behaviours, presenting us with an opportunity to redefine last-mile logistics in this country. At DTDC,  we embrace the transformative journey, our technological advancements must align seamlessly with societal and environmental needs, reflecting the vision. We aim to leveraging our leadership position to enhance our digital capabilities and drive exponential growth across Express Parcels, International, and Integrated E-commerce Logistics."

Ankit Kumar

Image: Ankit Kumar, Skye Air

Image Courtesy: Bharatagritech



Ankit Kumar, Founder & CEO of Skye Air, expressed,


"We are thrilled to collaborate with DTDC on its 35th Foundation Day, leveraging our advanced drone delivery infrastructure to redefine last-mile deliveries in urban areas. By integrating drones into the delivery network, we can bypass traffic congestion, enhancing delivery speed, efficiency, and sustainability. Each drone delivery can save over 520 grams of CO2 emissions compared to traditional methods. Our goal is to reduce the distance and time for last-mile deliveries, significantly impacting the logistics infrastructure. Bharat is poised to lead the drone delivery and aerial taxi industry on a global scale, with countries worldwide likely to adopt the innovative models being developed here. From drone manufacturers to service providers and R&D institutions, there is a concerted effort to establish Bharat as the global drone hub by 2030."


Milestones in DTDC's Journey


DTDC has a history of innovation, from launching India's first logistics app, MyDTDC, to introducing the 100% money-back promise for express premium shipments with DTDCShipAssure, and implementing Smile Code Delivery, India's first OTP-based logistics delivery system.


The introduction of drone delivery services marks another significant milestone in the company's journey.



  • DTDC's foray into drone-based deliveries, in partnership with Skye Air Mobility, represents a bold step toward the future of logistics.


  • This initiative underscores DTDC's unwavering commitment to innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.


  • As the company continues to lead the way in the logistics industry, it sets a new standard for last-mile delivery, paving the way for a more efficient and eco-friendly future.

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