Research on the Location Selection of Hierarchical Vertiports for UAVs in Low-Altitude Logistics

To improve the efficiency of urban last-mile logistics distribution and promote the development of the low-altitude economy, this study proposes a site location method for hierarchical UAV takeoff and landing sites tailored to urban low-altitude logistics demands. First, a conditional Logit model was utilized to identify key influencing factors and evaluate urban low-altitude logistics demand. Second, the polygon intersection point set method for multi-level facilities was applied to determine the candidateset of UAV takeoff and landing sites. Finally, a multi-objective maximal coverage location model for hierarchical UAV takeoff and landing sites was established, with optimization objectives of maximizing demand coverage and minimizing construction costs and the rate of redundant demand coverage. An improved NSGA-Ⅲ algorithm was designed to solve the model. The results show that the performance of facilities is optimal when the number of vertiport sites and points respectively reach 53 and 107 in Shanghai, with a demand coverage rate of 85.6%, construction costs amounting to 9.59 million CNY, and a redundant demand coverage rate of 33.7%. The location scheme demonstrates high rationality and feasibility. In addition, the study reveals that economic development level and transportation accessibility significantly influence the spatial distribution of UAV takeoff and landing sites. Setting sites in areas with high GDP and abundant transportation facilities can further enhance demand coverage, although it may lead to increased construction costs and service range redundancy. The research can provide scientific decision-making support for the planning and implementation of urban low-altitude logistics systems.