Pyka
Pyka unveiled the latest addition to its fleet of purpose-built industrial aircraft, the Pelican Cargo. Similar in size to high-wing light sport aircraft, Pelican Cargo is the world's largest zero-emission cargo airplane and the first autonomous vehicle of its class, according to its manufacturer.
With a range up to 200 miles, a payload up to 400 lb in 66ft3 of cargo volume, and a nose-loading configuration with a sliding cargo tray, the Pelican Cargo platform can be used for express logistics networks, enable connectivity of remote rural communities, and provide access to vital goods and supplies for areas in need.
Pyka CEO and co-founder Michael Norcia says, "We designed this plane to eliminate CO2 emissions from the logistics chain, while offering a significant speed advantage over ground transportation, and operating costs at a fraction of conventional air transportation."
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 more than 80 orders and options for its Pelican Cargo from three launch customers across North America and Europe. The aircraft is currently undergoing rigorous 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.
"We operate a carefully selected fleet of unmanned aerial system (UAS) platforms across our markets, each of which has been chosen due to its operational capabilities and unrivaled performance," says Alex Brown, director, Skyports Drone Services, one of Pyka's launch customers for Pelican Cargo. "Welcoming the Pelican Cargo aircraft into our fleet will enable us to continue on our mission of solving complex logistical and operational challenges with tailored drone services. We know a thing or two about drones and in our eyes, the Pelican Cargo is the most advanced product in its payload class on the market. We're excited to kickstart operations with Pyka and put the Pelican through its paces."
Pyka's proprietary technology includes autonomous flight control software, flight computers, high energy density batteries, advanced electric propulsion systems, and carbon composite airframes.
