When severe flooding cut off villages across Guangxi, cargo drones became a vital aerial lifeline for communities beyond the reach of rescue boats. Deployed by rescue teams, companies and civilian volunteers, the unmanned aircraft delivered food, drinking water and emergency medical supplies directly to stranded residents, carrying up to 80 kilograms per trip and reaching some locations in just three to four minutes. According to reports, DJI Agriculture and Transport drones have delivered more than 1,000 tonnes of emergency relief supplies, with nearly 100 drones operating simultaneously across the disaster zone.

The technology went beyond delivering essentials. Communications drones equipped with satellite base stations restored mobile signal coverage over disaster-hit areas, allowing residents to call for help despite widespread power and network outages. As floodwaters disrupted roads and isolated entire communities, the rapid deployment of drone technology showed how innovation can transform humanitarian relief, connecting those in need with lifesaving supplies and emergency assistance when conventional rescue methods fall short.