AutoFlight, a global leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, announces the launch of a high-payload firefighting program, unveiling a fully functional prototype set to transform the firefighting industry.
Designed with a remarkable maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of two metric tons, this firefighting model is engineered to efficiently carry a 400kg payload across distances of up to 200km, reaching speeds exceeding 200km/h.
One of its features is its ability to transport four high-performance fire-extinguishing canisters, each weighing 100kg. These canisters boast the capacity to individually extinguish fires covering up to 200 sq/m. In a single payload, these four canisters join forces to collectively tackle fires spanning an 800 sq/m.
This firefighting model is an evolution of AutoFlight’s CarryAll, a versatile cargo eVTOL aircraft. The company anticipates achieving Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certification for the CarryAll by early 2024.
Kellen Xie, Senior Vice President of Global Sales & Business Development at AutoFlight, expressed the revolutionary nature of this achievement: “Compared to existing firefighting Unmanned Aerial Vehicles available in the market, AutoFlight’s prototype has achieved significant breakthroughs in terms of load capacity, flight duration, coverage, flight efficiency, and firefighting effectiveness. The initial demonstrations with potential customers received very encouraging feedback. We will now enter discussions with clients and development partners to evolve the prototype into a product, including ground station and supporting systems.”
