#Japan #Hummingbird #Koshigaya #Drone School #Koshigaya City

Collaboration to Tackle Disasters with Drone Technology

Recently, Tokyo Drone School, operated by Hummingbird Co., and its affiliate in Saitama, Saitama Lake Town Drone School, have entered into a significant agreement with Koshigaya City. This partnership aims to establish a comprehensive framework for utilizing drones during disasters to facilitate swift assessments of affected areas. The official signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Koshigaya Mayor Akira Fukuda and representatives from both drone schools, showcasing a united front in improving community safety through technological innovation.

Purpose of the Agreement

The primary objective of this collaboration is to enable rapid and detailed assessments of disaster situations using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Koshigaya and surrounding areas during emergencies. By leveraging the advanced piloting skills and technical knowledge from both educational institutions, this initiative aims to overcome the challenges faced by local authorities in gathering aerial information during critical times. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance the safety and well-being of citizens.

Main Support Activities

In alignment with Koshigaya's needs, both Hummingbird Co. and Propeller Co., which operates Saitama Lake Town Drone School, will conduct a series of specific support activities:

• - Assessment and Data Collection: Utilizing drones to capture aerial footage and investigate damage to buildings and infrastructure.
• - Information Provision: Prompt delivery of acquired images, video data, and investigation results to the city, facilitating rescue operations and recovery planning.
• - Participation in Disaster Drills: Actively engaging in disaster prevention drills organized by the city to reinforce their collaborative framework in preparation for future emergencies.

The agreement marks a crucial step in establishing a proactive approach to disaster management, which is vital in Koshigaya's vulnerability to various natural calamities, especially floods and earthquakes.

Disasters Risks in Koshigaya

Koshigaya City, situated in a low-lying alluvial plain within the Naka River basin, experiences minimal elevation changes but is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and drainage channels, such as the Ayase and Arakawa rivers. These geographical characteristics pose severe flood risks, especially during large-scale water surges, potentially inundating much of the city.

In the case of a Tonegawa river flood, areas around the Shinkou River could experience water depths of 3.0 to 5.0 meters. The predominance of soft ground in most parts of the city increases the amplification of earthquake tremors and raises the likelihood of liquefaction during seismic events.

Predicted challenges during these disasters include:

• - Isolation Due to Widespread Flooding: Flooded roads and damaged bridges could hinder ground-level assessments and rescue efforts.
• - Rapid Damage Assessment: The necessity for swift and comprehensive damage assessments across the city during extensive emergencies.

This agreement allows for a drone-assisted aerial strategy in areas where human operations are limited, such as during high waters or building collapses, thereby facilitating real-time situational analysis and quicker decision-making for rescue operations.

Collaborative Framework

This agreement represents a joint effort between the directly operated Tokyo Drone School and its locally-rooted affiliate, Saitama Lake Town Drone School. By capitalizing on this powerful network, both organizations pledge to use their aerial vehicles and human resources to comprehensively support Koshigaya’s disaster prevention and mitigation activities.

Saitama Lake Town Drone School Overview

Based in the well-known Aeon Lake Town Outlet shopping complex in Koshigaya, Saitama Lake Town Drone School is the first affiliate of Tokyo Drone School in Saitama. Managed by Propeller Co., a prominent video production company known for its collaboration on numerous television programs, this school excels in aerial photography and videography, backed by professional creators.

About Tokyo Drone School

Founded with a vision to harness cutting-edge technology and services for individuals and businesses, Hummingbird Co. operates Tokyo Drone School, focusing on maximizing the potential of drone-related industries and nurturing talented aviators. It was the first of its kind to be established within a commercial facility in Japan, opening its flagship school in Odaiba in November 2018, followed by further expansions across major Japanese cities. At present, the group operates 11 schools nationwide, boasting over 6,000 alumni, including more than 2,000 certified professionals.

As a registered training institution under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the school offers courses for obtaining various drone piloting licenses. Furthermore, in 2024, it plans to launch the “Disaster Response Aviation Unit Hachidori,” consisting of instructors and experienced graduates, dedicated to specializing in disaster response through regular training.

The agreement with Koshigaya City profoundly reinforces the commitment of both drone schools to leverage technology for public safety, promoting a cohesive approach towards disaster resilience across their community.