An aerial view of Xiazhi Island. [Photo/Tide News]

Residents and workers on Xiazhi Island in Putuo district, Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, can now receive drone-delivered goods following the recent launch of the island's drone delivery service.

Previously, residents on Xiazhi and nearby islands such as Jinboyu and Xibailian relied mainly on ferry services for supplies, resulting in longer delivery times and limited product choices. To address this, Xiazhi town has worked with local transport authorities to build drone infrastructure, with two standardized drone takeoff and landing sites now in operation.

The service operates through a drone hub at Liuheng Convenience Center, offering five daily delivery flights scheduled for morning, afternoon, and evening periods. Goods are flown from Liuheng Island and handed over by staff upon arrival, creating a closed-loop delivery network.

Residents can place orders through e-commerce platforms, provide their island location, and receive items including meals, medicines, and emergency supplies.

The drone delivery service is part of Putuo's broader development of low-altitude logistics. The district has built 21 drone takeoff and landing sites and approved 10 low-altitude logistics routes, making it one of Zhejiang's pilot areas for low-altitude economy development.

Previously, Mayi Island and Dengbu Island also launched regular drone delivery services, helping expand an island-wide aerial logistics network.