Chinese e-commerce firm JD.com has carried out Indonesia’s first government approved drone flight – a "breakthrough for drone delivery in Southeast Asia".
JD.com said the pilot project opens the door for future commercial drone use in Indonesia and the Southeast Asia region, subject to further regulatory approvals.
The test flight took place on January 8 in West Java, where the drone flew from Jagabita Village, Parung Panjang to MIS Nurul Falah Leles Elementary School to deliver backpacks and books to students.
The village can be difficult to reach by truck because of the condition of local roads.
The items delivered by drone were part of a larger donation of supplies from JD.com to the school.
"Given the fact that the country is spread out across many islands," the retailer said, "The implementation of drones for regular use in e-commerce deliveries, as well as other logistics-related services, will enable citizens in Indonesia to enjoy more efficient and reliable services, and help JD.ID [Indonesia] realise its goal of being able to deliver 85% of orders same- or next-day.
"JD.ID is also committed leveraging its logistics and other resources to support humanitarian efforts like earthquake disaster relief.
“It is a privilege to have contributed to this important moment in Indonesia’s history,” said Jon Liao, Chief Strategy Officer at JD.com.
“We have been using drones for real deliveries in China for over two years now, and have seen the profound impact that the technology can have on people’s lives around the country."
