Pyka, an American startup specializing in electric aircraft, has just announced the arrival of the Pelican Cargo, the largest electric cargo plane in the world. In addition to being zero emission, this aircraft has another differential: autonomous flight capabilities.
According to the manufacturer, the Pelican Cargo has a maximum load weight of 182kg and a compartment volume of 1.87m³. These good capabilities were possible because the company was able to combine an adequate size with an advantageous operating weight for the engines to work safely and efficiently. The aircraft has a wingspan of 11.5m and a length of 6.1m.
In terms of performance, the numbers also please. The maximum take-off weight is s599kg, with a maximum payload of 182kg. The cruising speed generated by the two turboprop electric motors is between 111 km/h and 148 km/h, enough for fast deliveries in up to 320 km of range. The operational ceiling is 2,500 meters.
The loading of products and any items that can be transported by the Pelican is done through the front nozzle of the aircraft, which has an electric conveyor belt that facilitates the process.
“The Pelican Cargo will have a significant positive impact on people’s lives. We designed this aircraft to eliminate CO2 emissions from the supply chain, while providing a significant speed advantage over ground transportation and operating costs at a fraction of the conventional air transport,” said Michael Norcia, CEO and co-founder of Pyka.
In addition to the technical and operational differentials, the Pelican Cargo can be programmed and controlled remotely by a pilot on the ground. All he has to do is trace the route and the entire system will act as necessary, making detours if the satellite passes the permitted coordinates.
According to Pyka, there are already more than 80 formal purchase orders for the Pelican Cargo. The aircraft’s commercial activities are expected to start in the second half of 2023.
