Aeronext and its strategic subsidiary NEXT DELIVERY conducted a demonstration project for a new smart logistics model combining joint truck delivery and drone delivery in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. The project ran from 19 to 21 October and from 26 to 28 October.
Aeronext and NEXT DELIVERY verified a new regional logistics model under the framework of a modal shift council coordinated by Matsue to address regional logistics challenges. Shipments were consolidated at depots, with trucks used for the middle mile and drones for the last mile.
The demonstration involved 2 use cases, document delivery and joint delivery of prepared meals and light cargo, and tested Level 3.5 automated remote operations using designated drone routes. The aircraft used were the PF4, with a maximum payload of 5.5 kg, and the FC30, with a maximum payload of 30 kg.
Going forward, the companies will aggregate and analyze data to refine operating efficiency and economics, expand the participating companies and delivery areas, and work toward implementing sustainable regional logistics infrastructure using public facilities and existing logistics networks.
The demonstration was conducted as part of Matsue-led efforts to address regional challenges and is expected to be used for delivery services that improve the efficiency of administrative operations and meet local welfare needs.