Chinese drone manufacturer DJI recently achieved a significant milestone by completing the first successful drone delivery on Mount Everest. The drone successfully transported three oxygen bottles and other supplies from Everest’s Base Camp to Camp 1, located at a high altitude.
In addition to delivering supplies, DJI’s FlyCart 30 drone was also used to transport trash from Camp 1 back down to Base Camp. This initiative aims to reduce the burden on Sherpas, who often risk their lives navigating challenging terrain to deliver supplies.
To ensure the success of the drone delivery, DJI conducted rigorous tests to evaluate the drone’s performance in extreme environmental conditions, including wind resistance, low temperatures, and weight capacity tests. The company believes that using drones for transportation can revolutionize Everest mountaineering logistics, facilitate trash cleanup efforts, and improve safety for all involved.
Christina Zhang, DJI’s Senior Corporate Strategy Director, emphasized the potential impact of drone technology on Everest expeditions in a press release. By offering a safe and efficient means of transporting equipment, supplies, and waste, drones have the power to transform the way logistics are managed on the world’s tallest mountain.