Vietnam Post Debuts First Cross-Sea UAV Route to Speed Up Coastal Logistics

Vietnam is moving into the future of flight. On February 12, the country launched its first cross-sea drone delivery route. This new service connects Cần Giờ and Vũng Tàu. It marks a big step for Vietnam’s emerging low-altitude economy.

The project is a joint effort. It involves the HCM City Department of Science and Technology, CT Group, and Vietnam Post. During the first flight, a drone carried a 2kg package. It traveled 12 kilometers in just 15 minutes.

Faster Logistics and Efficiency

This journey is much faster than old methods. It is six times faster than driving. It is three times faster than using a boat. Officials say it can cut total travel time by up to 90%.

The drones use the CT Nexus Flight Control System. This tech helps them fly in salty air and high winds. They fly at an average speed of 10 to 15 meters per second. This makes them perfect for coastal deliveries.

Safety and Technical Standards

Safety is a top priority for these flights. The drones stay below 200 meters in altitude. They follow a 300-meter-wide flight path. Each unit has cameras and smart navigation tools. This ensures they stay on track and avoid obstacles.

Key technical details include:

• Maximum altitude: 200 meters
• Flight corridor: 300 meters wide
• Operating radius: 500 meters at landing zones
• Payload capacity: 2kg per parcel

Impact on Maritime Operations

Once fully ready, the route will be busy. It could handle up to 5,000 small parcels every day. The service will also help ships at sea. About 120 large ships pass through this area daily. They often need documents or medicine quickly.

Phạm Huỳnh Quang Hiếu spoke about the technical challenges. He is the deputy director of the HCM City Department of Science and Technology. He noted that sea flights are harder due to weather. However, this success shows that Vietnam is ready for advanced air transport.

Vietnam Post is still testing the service. They are working with regulators to meet safety standards similar to those set by the ICAO. Large-scale commercial fees are not yet in place.

This move is about more than just mail. It sets the stage for emergency medical help and maritime monitoring. It is a key part of Vietnam’s plan to grow its aviation technology sector and modernize its supply chain.

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