China successfully tests its largest cargo drone, aiming to build a $279 billion low-altitude industry

From Investing.com: 2024-08-11 23:55:18

China has successfully tested its largest unmanned cargo aircraft, capable of carrying 2 metric tons. The country aims to build a $279 billion low-altitude drone industry by 2030. The aircraft, developed by Sichuan Tengden Sci-tech Innovation Co., has a wingspan of 16.1 m and a height of 4.6 m.

This test flight follows the June maiden flight of AVIC’s HH-100 cargo drone with a 700 kg payload capacity. AVIC plans to test its 2-ton cargo drone next year. The Chinese government sees the low-altitude economy as a new growth engine, with vertical mobility playing a key role in passenger transport and cargo deliveries.

In a significant step, UAV maker EHang Holdings received a production certificate for China’s first autonomous passenger drone. Cargo firm Phoenix Wings, part of SF Express, started using drones to deliver fresh fruit. China’s drone industry is rapidly expanding, with over 2,000 enterprises involved in UAV design and manufacturing, led by DJI.



Read more at Investing.com: China test-flies biggest cargo drone as low-altitude economy takes off By Reuters