Dufour Aerospace, the pioneering Swiss drone manufacturer, announced a major milestone: the completion of its first flight test campaign with a hybrid-electric system designed in-house for its Aero2 drone. The Aero2 flew several test flights in Zurich, with the hybrid system self-charging its batteries in flight. The news is significant as it completes Dufour’s vision of a hybrid-electric powertrain, with an innovative tilt-wing design, and autonomous flight. This is believed to be the … [Read more...] about Dufour Aerospace achieves drone milestone; First-ever flight with series hybrid-electric engine from vertical takeoff to full-forward flight and back
eVTOL
Japan Airlines’ vision for the future of pharmaceutical logistics
Japan Airlines (JAL) is taking a significant leap forward in the logistics and healthcare sectors by incorporating drone technology into its broader business strategy. This initiative is part of JAL’s Digital Transformation (DX) strategy, which focuses on integrating advanced technology with the airline’s expertise in safe operations. By collaborating with other companies and aligning with government policies, JAL aims to revolutionise air mobility through drones and electric Vertical Take-Off … [Read more...] about Japan Airlines’ vision for the future of pharmaceutical logistics
Drone operator Skyports raises US$23 million in funding
UK-registered air taxi and drone services provider Skyports has raised US$23 million in the first close of its series B funding round from a combination of new and existing investors. Skyports will use the funding to consolidate its position as a global leader in advanced air mobility infrastructure and drone operations. The company plans to scale its drone services operations in new and existing markets, building on active operations in the UK, Europe and Asia. Skyports … [Read more...] about Drone operator Skyports raises US$23 million in funding
Wingcopter secures funding from Japanese drone investor
German drone developer Wingcopter has received an investment from Japanese venture capital company Drone Fund, which specializes in startups related to drones and air mobility. The injection, which will come from a third fund amounting to US$90 million raised by the Japan-based VC, comes in the run-up of Wingcopter’s Series B investment round. This would be Drone Fund's first investment in drone technology and first partnership with a German company. Last year, Wingcopter signed a … [Read more...] about Wingcopter secures funding from Japanese drone investor
UPS makes strides in sustainability with electric aircraft
United Parcel Service (UPS) is making further steps to find new ways to help small businesses with sustainable solutions. Through its subsidiary UPS Flight Forward, the company plans to purchase electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from startup Beta Technologies. Beta’s aircraft can carry 1,400 pounds of cargo capacity with a range of 250 miles and zero operating emissions. Also read: FedEx targets carbon-neutral operations by 2040 “With the capability to take off and … [Read more...] about UPS makes strides in sustainability with electric aircraft