Unveiling the Future Transport: QIU’s Vision for the Yantian Drone Port in Shenzhen YANTIAN DRONE PORT.
YANTIAN DRONE PORT – In the rapidly evolving realm of transportation, commercial use of manned drone is inevitable as it will be the most efficient way of mid-distance travel. Quality Innovation United (QIU) has designed southern China’s first drone port as the core of the Greater Bay Area’s transport network.
Our envisioned complex facilitates the travel of passenger-carrying drones and helicopters for both commercial and rescue purposes within the region. Situated in the north-western region of Shenzhen, a globally recognized tech hub, our proposed drone port is nestled atop a steep mountain, offering sweeping panoramic views of Yantian Bay and industrial port below. Spanning across a vast 48,000 square meters, this complex boasts spacious hangar facilities for helicopters and ride-drones, a 350m long outdoor landing runway, take-off/landing roof platforms, a centralized flight control centre, accommodations for short stays, office spaces, a training facility, a drone museum, and a VIP suite.
This pioneering project incorporates sustainable features such as PVs and heat absorbing concrete. Carefully crafted building masses and layouts welcome natural light and refreshing breezes while providing stunning ocean views. A central plaza, strategically positioned to face the eastern mountain hillside, hosts building entrances and drop-off points, surrounded by a lush visitor’s garden. This expansive area, adorned with greenery, also serves as a rainwater retention feature, aligning with the concept of a sponge city.
The building is split into two distinct phases. This phased approach ensures the current helicopter port remains operational during the construction of the new building in the first phase. Subsequently, the newly constructed first-phase building starts operating as the drone port, while the expansion of the second-phase building proceeds to replace the existing structure.
The highlight of Yantian Drone Port is the dynamic hangar space, serving as storage and maintenance for helicopters and drones. Covered by pre-cast concrete walls and extending along the runway, this space transforms into an atmospheric drone museum and showroom under natural light through atria-glazed roofing. The drone hangar museum attracts all visitors interested in helicopters and manned drones.
Above the hangar, there’s a ten-storey tower with offices, accommodations, training rooms, and conference facilities. Its rooftop and selected terrace spaces are designed as drone landing pads, able to support manned drones and prevent stress on the building. The tower’s stepped shape is inspired by eagle wings, symbolising the future of aerial transport.
Our holistic approach to designing the Yantian Drone Port aims to make the most of the site and blend functionality seamlessly with architectural beauty. Additionally, the design of this unique building highlights the rapid progress of the manned drone transport industry.
‘QIU hopes to provide a valuable reference and exemplary prototype for the rapidly growing “low-altitude economy” through the design and reflection of this project. ’
Quality Innovation United
Program – Transportation, Office
Location – Shenzhen
Scope – Master plan, Architectural Design
Status – Design Revealed
