Elroy Air is working with FedEx to test the use of the autonomously-piloted Chaparral C1 aircraft for cargo delivery.
FedEx is interested in incorporating Elroy Air's VTOL aerial cargo system into its delivery setup, as Elroy Air is working on developing the first end-to-end autonomously vertical takeoff and landing system.
FedEx plans to test integration of Elroy Air's aircraft for its middle-mile operations, which involves moving goods between its sorting depots.
The C1 aircraft is capable of carrying up to 500 pounds of goods over a 300-mile range and has a large compartment beneath the fuselage. The firm says its flying machine will create a conveyor belt through the sky, and it will be cheaper than ground transport.
FedEx said it is interested in using the technology to deal with the increasing demands placed on its service by the growing popularity of e-commerce.
FedEx was built on innovation and we are always looking toward new technologies to help enhance the logistics industry through improved safety, efficiency, and customer service.
Kofi Asante said his team is proud to work with FedEx to build the next generation of express logistics. We will work together to create a new future for how we get goods to people around the world.
FedEx and Elroy Air have been working together since 2020.
The teams are looking at how FedEx can incorporate the aircraft into its shipping service, with the first flight tests of the Chaparral C1 in 2023.
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