Meituan drone explores technological innovation in consumer scenarios
On March 20, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region announced the list of the first batch of low-altitude economy (LAE) regulatory sandbox pilot projects, with Meituan Drone being selected. At the launch ceremony, after Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Lee Ka Chiu John issued the takeoff command, Meituan Drone completed its first low-altitude logistics delivery task in Hong Kong.
In October 2024, Meituan Drone opened the first regular drone delivery route in a port scenario on the mainland at the Shenzhen Futian Port. At the same time, to better serve the instant retail needs of Hong Kong users, it launched services such as Hong Kong dollar payment for the first time.
It is said that the preparatory work for Meituan Drone's first delivery route in Hong Kong has been basically completed and is currently awaiting final approval to determine the launch date. It is expected to meet Hong Kong citizens soon. Meanwhile, the company has established a drone business entity in Hong Kong and also plans to set up a research and development center. It will collaborate with Hong Kong academic institutions to conduct joint research and technological breakthroughs in the field of low-altitude economy, contributing to the scientific and technological progress and industrial development of Hong Kong's low-altitude economy.
In 2017, Meituan established its drone business. As of the end of December 2024, it has opened 53 routes in cities such as Shenzhen, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Nanjing, completing more than 450,000 orders. Its services cover various scenarios including offices, communities, scenic spots, municipal parks, campuses, libraries, and ports, and it can deliver more than 90,000 types of products to users.
On December 17, 2024, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority issued a BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) drone delivery commercial operation qualification certificate to Meituan Drone. This is also the first certificate issued in the region.
