A drone flies over islands and surrounding waters in Zhoushan. [Photo/www.wifizs.cn]

The first low-altitude logistics test air route serving islands in the Yangtze River Delta region was launched on July 18 in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province. That afternoon, the air route's debut was followed by a forum on innovation and development in island-based low-altitude logistics.

With the rise of low-altitude logistics as part of China's national strategy, the industry is gaining momentum due to its flexibility and ability to bypass terrain constraints. 

Island areas, which often lack reliable ground transportation and face challenging weather, are seen as ideal testing grounds. Each year, high winds affect Zhoushan's maritime traffic for about 40 days, increasing hidden costs and delaying supply deliveries.

The newly opened route connects Shanghai with Zhoushan and Ningbo, helping improve the transport of essential materials, emergency medical supplies, seafood, and crude oil samples. The route network consists of 10 approved segments, linking key coastal locations from Lingang in Shanghai to various islands in Zhoushan, including Majishan and Shulanghu. Flights from Zhoushan to Ningbo are also in planning.