How drones could change supply chains for high altitudes

In the challenging world of high-altitude operations, drone technology is emerging as a game-changer, promising to revolutionise supply chains in some of the world's most inaccessible regions. Traditionally, high-altitude supply chains have relied on human porters, pack animals, and helicopters, each with significant limitations. Drones offer a middle ground, combining speed, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to navigate extreme conditions.

The potential for growth in this sector is significant. According to a report by Statista, the Indian drone market alone is projected to generate a revenue of $27 million in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.96% from 2024 to 2028. This growth is driven by the increasing recognition of drones' potential in various sectors, including high-altitude supply chains.

Drones can dramatically reduce delivery times for critical items in high-altitude regions. A prime example is the work done by Skye Air Mobility in collaboration with Redcliffe Labs in the Indian Himalayas. In December 2022, they launched long-term drone pilot flights from the high-altitude town of Uttarkashi to Sahastradhara, Dehradun. These drones transport medical test samples over challenging mountainous terrain, reducing delivery time from 6-8 hours by road to just 90 minutes. This service is particularly crucial during landslides, which can completely cut off road access. In May 2024, Skye Air Mobility collaborated with e-commerce logistics provider, Ecom Express to enhance last-mile delivery with plans to expand coverage to additional pin codes in remote and challenging terrains across the country.

Indian startup TSAW is another company developing drone technology for high-altitude delivery operations. They have conducted trials in challenging environments such as Keylong village in the Lahaul and Spiti District of Himachal Pradesh, India. TSAW drones are designed to operate in thin-air environments and harsh conditions typical of high-altitude regions. To overcome the challenges of these areas, TSAW has implemented several innovative solutions, including advanced navigation and propulsion systems, optimised route planning to leverage real-time data, and a temperature control system for Lithium polymer batteries to address the issue of standard Lithium-ion batteries not functioning well in low temperatures. These drones also incorporate autonomous operation systems, aerodynamic designs, and low-power propulsion systems to enhance efficiency and extend operational range in high-altitude environments.

In addition to medical supply delivery, drones are transforming high-altitude rescue operations by quickly surveying large areas and helping teams locate individuals in distress. A notable example occurred in 2018 when Polish drone pilots aided in the rescue of Scottish mountaineer Rick Allen on Broad Peak in the Karakoram, at an altitude of over 8,000 metres. For mountaineering expeditions, drones can transport essential equipment to high-altitude base camps, reducing the need for human porters in dangerous conditions.

Another significant player in the high-altitude drone delivery space is Wingcopter, a leading drone delivery company. Wingcopter is developing a specialised drone called the 'Wingcopter 198' designed specifically for delivering healthcare supplies in challenging environments. The company has established test centres across three continents to evaluate and optimise the drone's performance and reliability for global operations. One of their critical test sites is located in Spain in a region named Extremadura, where the Wingcopter 198 undergoes intensive testing in diverse climate conditions. This rigorous testing aims to ensure the drone's durability and performance in challenging environments, including high-altitude and remote areas.

Environmental conservation efforts at high altitudes are also benefiting from drone technology. In a groundbreaking test on Mount Everest in June 2024, DJI Tech drones successfully removed trash from high altitudes, demonstrating their potential in waste management. During the tests, three oxygen bottles and 1.5kg of other supplies were flown from Everest Base Camp to Camp 1 (5,300-6,000m Above sea level). On the return trip, trash was carried back down, showcasing the potential for maintaining cleaner environments in these sensitive ecosystems.

The advantages of incorporating drones into high-altitude supply chains are numerous. While initial investment in drone technology could be substantial, operational costs can be lower than traditional methods, especially in remote, high-altitude areas. According to a 2021 Wipro report, the operating costs for a drone delivery service are 40% to 70% lower than a vehicle delivery service model. However, it's worth noting that exact figures for drone operational costs in high-altitude environments may vary. Drones can take direct routes over difficult terrain, significantly reducing delivery times in areas where road infrastructure is poor. By reducing human involvement in dangerous conditions, drones can significantly improve safety in high-altitude operations. Additionally, electric drones can have a lower environmental impact than traditional delivery methods, particularly in sensitive high-altitude ecosystems.

However, high-altitude environments pose unique challenges for drone operations. DJI engineers, before undertaking delivery flights on Everest, had to consider extreme environmental challenges, including temperatures ranging between -15° to 5°C, wind speeds up to 15m/s, and altitudes over 6,000m ASL (above sea level). Companies are rapidly innovating to address these issues. For instance, DJI's Matrice 300 RTK drone, used in the Everest test, can operate at altitudes up to 5000m and in temperatures as low as -20°C. Rigorous tests of DJI FlyCart 30 were conducted, including unloaded hover, wind resistance, low-temperature, and weight capacity tests with successively heavier payloads.

As drone technology continues to evolve, we can expect more widespread adoption in high-altitude supply chains. From delivering medical supplies to remote mountain villages, supporting scientific expeditions and adventure tourism, to aiding in critical rescue operations, drones are set to transform how we approach logistics and emergency response in some of the world's most challenging environments.

The coming years are likely to see increased integration of AI and machine learning in drone operations, further enhancing their capabilities in high-altitude conditions. This could lead to more autonomous operations, better navigation in extreme weather, and improved payload capacity. As drone technology advances, it promises to make high-altitude operations safer, more efficient, and more sustainable, opening up new possibilities for human endeavour in extreme environments.