The Changying-8 cargo unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the world's largest of its kind, successfully completed its maiden flight at an airport in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, on Tuesday.
The fixed-wing cargo UAV needed only 280 meters to climb off the ground before successfully verifying the operation of various sub-systems such as intelligent flight control, avionics, power fuel, and flight quality.
Developed by Beijing Beifang Changying UAV Technology Co., Ltd., the drone has an ultra-large cargo compartment with a volume of 18 cubic meters, a maximum takeoff weight of 7 tonnes, and a maximum payload capacity of 3.5 tonnes.
"Firstly, the Changying-8 cargo UAV has strong payload capacity, with a maximum takeoff weight of 7 tonnes. Secondly, it has high loading efficiency. We use a design with dual cabin doors at the front and rear that run through the cargo hold. The internal space reaches 18 cubic meters, and loading and unloading can be completed within 15 minutes. Thirdly, the UAV has strong environmental adaptability. We use twin turboprop engines, enabling takeoff and landing on plateaus and on short runways, and it also has short takeoff and landing capability," said Cai Hangqing, chairman of Beijing Beifang Changying UAV Technology Co., Ltd.
According to the company, the UAV was guided by an intelligent system throughout the entire flight.
Its flight also marks the first time a Chinese 7-tonne-class cargo UAV was used on the country's regional air logistics platform.
"The Changying-8 is mainly positioned for regional air logistics, with a service radius of 800 to 1,500 kilometers. It can operate continuously 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Compared with manned aircraft, it is more efficient and more cost-effective. We have already launched certification for trial operations, and we will continue technological iteration and upgrades. The UAV is expected to enter production before the end of this year," Cai noted.
World's largest unmanned cargo aircraft completes maiden flight
