China's 7-tonne cargo drone completes maiden flight
6 hours ago
- #Aviation Logistics
- #Drone Technology
- #China Innovation
- China's Changying-8, the world's largest cargo drone, completed its maiden flight on March 31, 2026.
- The 7-tonne-class drone took off in 280 meters, flew for about 30 minutes, and landed accurately, with systems verified.
- Developed independently by China North Industries, it has a 3.5-tonne payload, over 3,000 km range, and short takeoff/landing capability.
- Features include an 18-cubic-meter cargo hold, quick loading/unloading, and operation in diverse environments.
- Expected applications include e-commerce logistics, supply to remote areas, emergency rescue, and disaster relief.
- The flight marks a breakthrough in intelligent unmanned transport and advances China's low-altitude economy.