China launches first intercity low-altitude drone logistics route

(ECNS) -- In a major move for China’s logistics sector, the country has successfully completed its first intercity low-altitude large-scale drone cargo flight.

A large fixed-wing drone carrying fresh lamb took off from Mahe General Aviation Airport in Yuyang, Shaanxi Province, on Sunday and landed at Xi’an Lantian General Aviation Airport nearly three hours later.

The FP-98 "Leo," used in the operation, is the first large unmanned cargo aircraft system to complete a trial flight on a designated route.

Developed by Aerospace Times Feipeng, the drone features advanced intelligent sensing and autonomous obstacle-avoidance technology, enabling night flights and operation in complex weather conditions.

With a payload capacity of up to 1.5 metric tons and a range of 1,200 kilometers per flight, the FP-98 has already received certification from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

The 540-kilometer route from Yulin to Lantian reduces transportation time by over 70 percent compared to traditional ground methods.

According to Xiang Xin, Industry director at Aerospace Times Feipeng Co., the company plans to establish regular drone flights between Yulin and Xi'an, with six weekly flights transporting 5 to 6 tons of goods.

 

Looking ahead, Liu Zhijun, head of Mahe General Aviation Airport in Yuyang, outlined plans to extend the route and develop additional logistics pathways, including connecting Yulin to neighboring regions such as Yinchuan and Lanzhou cities, as well as Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

These efforts align with a broader vision to position Yulin as a key logistics hub along the "Air Silk Road," Liu said.