Drones speed up delivery of blood samples in Dresden to laboratories

In the heart of Saxony, Dresden is making waves as an innovation hub, with German Copters DLS GmbH leading the charge in a groundbreaking drone project. Every day, around 50 blood samples are flown from the Ore Mountains to the state capital, a journey that would typically take around 40 minutes by car but is now completed in just 12 minutes by drone.

The drone, weighing 19 kilograms, is equipped with three SIM cards to ensure constant reception and can fly at speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. Its battery life is sufficient for the test route, and it measures 2.40 meters in length, ensuring the safe delivery of its precious cargo.

The drone collects blood samples from 14 practices in Dippoldiswalalde, Altenberg, and Glashütte. This service, according to Thomas Kirchner, a specialist physician and owner of the Medical Laboratory of East Saxony, saves time and personnel. The test route between the Ore Mountains and the state capital has been successful, and the vision for the future is the delivery directly to the window of the respective laboratory.

However, the drone does not fly completely autonomously; it requires human oversight for sudden obstacles. Matea Zivkovic, an experienced pilot based in Croatia, oversees the drone's operation. If obstacles appear on the routine route, Zivkovic must determine whether the drone can make a wide detour around the obstacle.

The drone service aims to eventually supply the entire Free State, reducing transport times by up to 60 percent compared to traditional methods. German Copters DLS GmbH plans to establish drone routes for the delivery of blood samples throughout Saxony starting in 2025. The company also plans to fly numerous new individual routes, with the ultimate goal of supplying the entire Free State of Saxony.

Obtaining permits is necessary for the drones to move on new routes. However, the success of the test route between the Ore Mountains and the state capital is a promising sign for the future of this innovative service. This project is another shining example of Dresden's commitment to innovation and progress.