Blue Dart begins drone deliveries in partnership with Skye Air

Logistics giant Blue Dart, part of the DHL Group, has partnered with Gurugram-based drone delivery startup Skye Air to deliver packages using drones. 

According to a Moneycontrol report, The partnership began a few weeks ago and aims to significantly reduce delivery times from hours to minutes. Blue Dart will initially focus on the growing ecommerce sector. 

According to Ankit Kumar, CEO of Skye Air, delivery times have been cut from an hour using traditional methods to just 7-8 minutes with drones.

How does the drone delivery system work?

According to Kumar, The drone deliveries are coordinated from Skye Air's hub in Sector 70-71 in Gurugram. The drones take off from this hub and fly to designated Skye Pods installed in residential complexes. Currently, Skye Pods are operational in three societies for Blue Dart deliveries.

These specialized containers serve as drop-off points where the parcels are collected by last-mile delivery executives, known as "Skyewalkers," who then deliver them to the customers' doorsteps. This system is designed to enhance efficiency and ensure quick delivery within minutes.

What are the operational challenges and solutions?

Operating drones in the intense heat of the National Capital Region (Delhi NCR) poses significant challenges. To mitigate this, drone flights are scheduled from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., avoiding the peak midday temperatures that can soar to 50°C.

Additionally, the startup had to secure numerous local administrative permissions to service the residential societies, despite improvements in the regulatory processes.

How is Skye Air leveraging "Green Zones"?

Skye Air has strategically utilized "green zones" in Gurugram, which are areas where drone operations can be conducted without needing prior permission from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

These zones include areas like Golf Course Extension, SPR, New Gurugram, Dwarka Expressway, and Sector 50. However, obtaining local administrative permissions was a complex process. 

Regarding this initiative, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart, said, "The logistics sector in India is experiencing an exhilarating phase. The nation's robust economic growth, coupled with the aspirations of its consumers and growth in Tier 2 & Tier 3 cities, has significantly boosted purchasing power. This surge in demand emphasises the need for innovative solutions that drive growth while ensuring efficiency and sustainability. As we witness the marvel of drone technology, we eagerly anticipate extending this service further, with plans to cover additional pin codes in subsequent stages with our partners."