FedEx plans to start testing autonomous cargo flights next year

FedEx plans to start testing autonomous cargo flights next year

FedEx plans to start testing autonomous cargo flights next year

FedEx plans to start testing a different method of moving goods between warehouses next year, which could speed up the delivery process.

The company has partnered with Elroy Air, which is developing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) cargo drone that will fly packages between sorting centers by autonomous flight.

Elroy Air released the Chaparral C1 drone in January this year. The hybrid-electric system has a range of up to 300 miles, the company says, and its cargo pod can hold 500 pounds of cargo. The drone is equipped with 12 electric motors and 12 propellers.

In a press release, FedEx noted that the Chaparral C1 does not require specific infrastructure such as airports or dedicated charging stations.

It also added that the use of the aircraft is in line with its goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2040.

The two companies have been working together for more than two years, and they are working to secure certification for the commercial use of Chaparral C1.

If all goes well, test flights are scheduled to begin in Fort Worth, Texas in 2023.

Autonomous cargo flights could allow FedEx to move packages between sorting centers more efficiently than on the ground. Right now, the Chaparral C1 is in pre-production, though it’s unclear how fast it will cruise.

If it works as promised, FedEx will be able to use drones to fly cargo from Fort Worth to Oklahoma City.