AutoFlight aerospace company AutoFlight successfully completed the first offshore cargo offshore cargo transportation using a 2-ton eVTOL drone. The aircraft, model CarryAll V2000CG, flew more than 300 kilometers round-trip between Shenzhen and the Huizhou 19-3 oil platform, located 150 kilometers offshore in the South China Sea.
Offshore logistics with 2-ton eVTOLs
The flight, which lasted 58 minutes, was the result of a collaboration between AutoFlight, state-owned oil company China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) and CITIC Offshore Helicopters. This alliance made it possible to overcome one of the biggest challenges in offshore energy operations: the time and cost of logistical transportation.
While ships require about 10 hours for a similar delivery and helicopters involve high operating costs, the CarryAll is positioned as an efficient, silent and zero-emission alternative.
Accuracy and performance in adverse conditions
During the mission, the V2000CG demonstrated its ability to fly in extreme conditions of fog, salt wind and humidity. With a maximum speed of 200 km/h and a payload capacity of 400 kg, the aircraft executed stationary flight maneuvers with high stability, validating its operability in demanding marine environments.
The model has full certifications, including Type, Production and Airworthiness including Type, Production and Airworthiness Certificates, being the first 2-ton eVTOL to achieve this worldwide.
Coordination with advanced air infrastructure
The operation was supported by China’s first digital air traffic control tower, integrating for the first time an eVTOL aircraft with existing aviation protocols.
CITIC Offshore Helicopters, a leading operator in Asia, contributed its expertise in aerial coordination and operational safety, consolidating a comprehensive framework for large-scale unmanned flights.
Impact on the industry and future projections
This accomplishment marks the beginning of a new phase in the air logistics for oil rigsenabling the rapid transport of personnel, medicines, critical equipment and even emergency medical evacuations.
As China’s low-altitude economy consolidates and eVTOL technology gains maturity, these aircraft are expected to be integrated as a key component in marine energy operations.
Kellen Xie, vice president of AutoFlight, noted that the results confirm the technical feasibility and operational reliability of eVTOLs. large-scale eVTOLscala in real-world environments. The CarryAll is thus positioned as a strategic solution to improve efficiency, reduce logistics costs and raise safety standards at sea.
Source and photo: AutoFlight
