Planning of Logistic Networks with Automated Transport Drones: A Systematic Review of Application Areas, Planning Approaches, and System Performance

Lukas Ostermann, Asrat Gobachew, Andreas Schwung and Stefan Lier ()
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Lukas Ostermann: Department of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, 59872 Meschede, Germany
Asrat Gobachew: Department of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, 59872 Meschede, Germany
Andreas Schwung: Department of Automation Technology and Learning Systems, South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, 59494 Soest, Germany
Stefan Lier: Department of Logistics and Supply Chain Management, South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences, 59872 Meschede, Germany

Logistics, 2025, vol. 9, issue 3, 1-55

Abstract: Background : The increasing integration of automated transport drones into logistics networks presents transformative potential for addressing contemporary logistics challenges, particularly in last-mile delivery, healthcare, disaster response, urban mobility, and postal services. However, their effective integration into varied logistics contexts remains hindered by infrastructure, regulatory, and operational limitations. This study aims to explore how drone-based logistics systems can be systematically planned and evaluated across diverse operational environments. Methods : A structured literature review was conducted, employing thematic synthesis to analyze current research on drone logistics. The analysis focused on identifying the key planning dimensions and interrelated components that influence the deployment of drone-based transport systems. Results : The review identified seven central planning dimensions: areas of application, system components, transport configuration, geographic areas, optimization and analysis methods, logistical planning, and performance assessment. These dimensions inform a conceptual framework designed to guide the planning and assessment of drone logistics networks. Conclusions : While existing studies contribute valuable insights into route optimization and drone deployment strategies, they often overlook integrative approaches that account for societal and environmental factors. The study emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and context-specific planning frameworks to enhance the sustainable and effective implementation of drone-based logistics systems.

Keywords: logistics planning; drones; last-mile; delivery; air mobility; healthcare logistics; optimization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L8 L80 L81 L86 L87 L9 L90 L91 L92 L93 L98 L99 M1 M10 M11 M16 M19 R4 R40 R41 R49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:9:y:2025:i:3:p:111-:d:1720560

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