Pyka, an autonomous electric aviation technology developer, has unveiled the latest addition to its fleet of purpose-built industrial aircraft: The Pelican Cargo. The company says the Pelican Cargo is the world’s largest zero-emission cargo airplane and the first autonomous vehicle of its class.
With a range of up to 200 miles, a payload of up to 400 lbs. in 66 cu. ft. of cargo volume and a nose-loading configuration with a sliding cargo tray, the company says the Pelican Cargo is designed for remote rural communities.
Following the commercial success of its agricultural spray aircraft, which led to a $37 million Series A raise in April 2022, Pyka has secured pre-commitments of over 80 orders and options for its Pelican Cargo from three launch customers across North America and Europe. The aircraft is currently undergoing testing at Pyka’s flight test facility in Northern California.
The first commercial operation of the new product is expected for the second half of 2023.
