Chinese Hydrogen-Powered Drone Sets Record with 30-Hour Flight
Key Ideas
  • An independently-developed Chinese hydrogen-powered drone completed a 30-hour non-stop flight, setting a new record in the country.
  • Developed by AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industrial (Group) Co Ltd and Tsinghua University, the drone showcased breakthroughs in integrated design leveraging hydrogen cell output characteristics.
  • The drone's successful flight in Sichuan Province demonstrated its remote monitoring capabilities, paving the way for green aviation in the low-altitude economy.
  • The use of a system with the drone mounted on an unmanned car for take-off showcased innovative applications for hydrogen-powered aircraft technology.
An independently-developed Chinese hydrogen-powered drone has recently made headlines by completing a 30-hour non-stop flight, setting a new record for such aircraft in China. Developed by AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industrial (Group) Co Ltd and Tsinghua University, the 50 kg-class hydrogen drone achieved this milestone through an integrated design focusing on flight, control, and propulsion based on hydrogen cell characteristics. The drone's successful flight in Sichuan Province, aided by a system with the drone mounted on an unmanned car for take-off, demonstrated innovative approaches to aircraft technology. During the flight, the drone conducted remote monitoring on the ground, showcasing its potential for use in the low-altitude economy and green aviation. This accomplishment highlights the progress in hydrogen-powered drone technology and its promising applications in the field of aviation.
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