China’s aviation industry reached a new milestone as the homegrown HH-100 cargo drone successfully completed its maiden flight on Wednesday. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) announced that the aerial commercial unmanned transportation system took to the skies at a general aviation airport in Xi’an City, located in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.
Developed independently by AVIC XAC Commercial Aircraft Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of AVIC based in Xi’an, the HH-100 represents a significant advancement in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. The system comprises two major components: an unmanned aerial vehicle and a ground-based command-and-control station.
During its inaugural flight, the HH-100 demonstrator showcased stable performance, successfully completing all test requirements. AVIC reported that all relevant systems operated seamlessly, marking a promising start for the UAV’s future applications.
The HH-100 is designed as a low-cost, high-payload cargo aircraft. It boasts a maximum take-off weight of 2,000 kilograms and can carry up to 700 kilograms of payload. With a full-weight range of 520 kilometers, the drone is capable of cruising at speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour and operates at altitudes reaching 5,000 meters. Its cargo bay accommodates approximately 4 cubic meters of goods, positioning it as a robust solution for aerial transportation needs.
According to its developers, the HH-100 is set to enhance effective, connected air-ground transportation networks. Beyond regional air logistics, the drone is expected to play vital roles in forest and grassland firefighting, delivering relief materials, providing emergency relay communication, and contributing to weather modification efforts.
AVIC highlighted that the HH-100 is part of a broader initiative targeting the burgeoning low-altitude economy. Plans are underway to develop a series of large, intelligent, low-cost, and reliable commercial unmanned aerial transportation systems, aiming to revolutionize the logistics and transportation sectors in the Chinese mainland and beyond.
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China's homegrown HH-100 cargo drone completes maiden flight
cgtn.com
