Dropzone

Dropzone is a term used in several contexts to indicate a defined area where drops take place, typically referring to aerial drops or to software that handles drag-and-drop functionality.

In military and aviation usage, a drop zone (DZ) is a prepared area on the ground designated for airborne operations. Paratroopers or air-dropped cargo are released from aircraft into the DZ, which is chosen for visibility, clearance from obstacles, and favorable wind and weather. DZs are marked, often with surface markings or lighting, and are controlled by a mission plan, navigational aids, and ground guides to ensure safe entry and landing.

In civilian and sport parachuting, the drop zone is the site where jumps are conducted and where landing zones, safety procedures, and services such as medical support are provided. DZ operators coordinate air traffic, weather, and equipment checks and maintain training programs for new jumpers.

In computing, Dropzone refers to a widely used open-source JavaScript library that enables drag-and-drop file uploads on websites. The library provides a drop area, client-side validation, previews, and automated upload handling, and is used to simplify user-friendly file submission in web applications.