Electric airplane startup Pyka has added the Pelican Cargo, the world’s largest zero-emission cargo airplane and the first autonomous vehicle in its class, to its fleet of industrial aircraft. The Pelican Cargo boasts an impressive range of up to 200 miles, a payload of 400 pounds, and 66 cubic feet of cargo volume. Its nose-loading configuration with a sliding cargo tray makes it ideal for express logistics networks, remote rural communities, and areas in need of vital goods and supplies.
Pyka CEO and co-founder Michael Norcia said, “We designed this plane to eliminate CO2 emissions from the logistics chain while offering a significant speed advantage over ground transportation and operating costs at a fraction of conventional air transportation.” Pyka’s proprietary technology includes autonomous flight control software, flight computers, high energy density batteries, advanced electric propulsion systems, and carbon composite airframes.
Pyka’s recent success with its agricultural spray aircraft, which led to a $37 million Series A raise in April 2022, has led to pre-commitments for over 80 orders and options for the Pelican Cargo from three launch customers across North America and Europe. The aircraft is undergoing rigorous testing at Pyka’s flight test facility in Northern California, with the first commercial operation expected for the second half of 2023.
Director of Skyports Drone Services, one of Pyka’s launch customers for the Pelican Cargo, Alex Brown, said, “The Pelican Cargo is the most advanced product in its payload class on the market and we’re excited to put it through its paces.” Pyka is dedicated to solving complex logistical and operational challenges with tailored drone services and the Pelican Cargo will enable them to continue their mission.
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In conclusion, the Pelican Cargo represents a major step forward in sustainable and efficient logistics solutions. Its zero-emission capability and autonomous flight will have a positive impact on communities, providing fast and reliable access to vital goods and supplies, while reducing the carbon footprint of the logistics chain. The Pelican Cargo is set to revolutionize the way we transport goods and supplies.