From Tea Leaves to Lifesaving Deliveries: How Drone Operators Are Boosting China’s Low-Altitude Economy
In the mountainous terrains of east China’s Ganzhou City, a silent revolution is unfolding in the skies. Meet Zhou Guojun, a drone operator whose passion for flying is transforming traditional industries and enhancing lives in ways previously unimaginable.
Every tea-picking season, Zhou can be found orchestrating a fleet of drones, skillfully transporting freshly picked tea leaves from remote plantations to processing factories. “Using drones improves transportation efficiency, ensures the freshness of the tea, and reduces damage during transit,” Zhou explains.
Zhou’s journey into the world of drones began in 2016 when his lifelong dream of flying found a new direction. Dedicating his spare time to study, he earned his civil unmanned aircraft operator license (Class IV). Today, he stands at the forefront of integrating drone technology into everyday logistics.
Operating multiple drones simultaneously is no small feat. Zhou remains vigilant, eyes fixed on the ground station interface, fingers poised over the keyboard, ready to make instantaneous adjustments. “During the rainy season, the weather can change rapidly,” he notes. “I must make emergency decisions based on safety assessments, whether that’s returning along the original route or finding a nearby landing spot.”
Beyond tea, Zhou’s drones have been pivotal in critical situations. Recalling a time when he transported blood samples, he shares, “What used to take an hour now takes just ten minutes. Knowing that my work can contribute to saving lives makes it all worthwhile.”
The demands of his job leave little room for error. “Operating drones may seem cool, but even the slightest mistake can jeopardize a flight,” Zhou says. “We monitor multiple drones, sometimes dozens, and every detail matters. By the end of the day, my eyes are weary from the constant focus.”
Zhou’s story is a testament to the innovative spirit driving China’s low-altitude economy. By blending cutting-edge technology with traditional industries, drone operators like him are redefining logistics, enhancing efficiency, and opening new horizons for economic growth.
The transformation is not just technological but also cultural. It reflects a broader shift in how Chinese people are integrating innovation into their daily lives, balancing tradition with modernity. As Zhou continues to navigate the skies over Ganzhou City, he embodies a new trend that is reshaping the landscape of work and opportunity across Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
