DTDC Express Ltd, one of India’s leading express logistics service providers, enters its 35th foundation year with a groundbreaking innovation in last-mile delivery: drone-based deliveries. In a strategic partnership with Skye Air Mobility, DTDC has embraced cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency and sustainability in last-mile delivery for its customers. The inaugural drone delivery was completed from Bilaspur to Gurgaon sector 92, covering a distance of 7.5 km in just 3-4 minutes, significantly faster than the typical 15-minute road route.
This development underscores DTDC’s commitment to adopting new technologies and setting industry standards in a rapidly changing logistics landscape. Building upon its extensive network of over 16,000 channel partners, which covers nearly 96% of the Indian population, DTDC aims to optimise the management of approximately 155 million parcels annually.
The introduction of drone deliveries promises faster, hassle-free service while contributing to eco-friendly logistics by reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. Following the successful launch in Gurgaon, DTDC plans to expand this service to other key locations across India, with a focus on regions where drone deliveries can have the most significant impact.
Abhishek Chakraborty, Chief Executive Officer of DTDC Express Ltd., commented, “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 digitalisation and changing consumer behaviours, presenting us with an opportunity to redefine last-mile logistics in this country.”
Ankit Kumar, Founder & CEO of Skye Air, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “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.”
