The first manned drone in Quzhou, Zhejiang province is set to conduct its maiden flight in late May. [Photo/app.qz123.com]

Quzhou's first manned drone is set to make a grand entrance. According to a report on May 10, the drone is slated for its maiden flight in late May, followed by manned test flights in June and regular operations commencing in July.

Comprising an unmanned aerial vehicle, a ground control station, and a data link transmission system, this innovative drone operates seamlessly with pre-programmed flight plans, enabling fully autonomous flights devoid of onboard pilots or conventional aircraft control mechanisms.

With a maximum takeoff weight of 650 kilograms, top speeds reaching 130 kilometers per hour, a flight ceiling of 200 meters, a range of 30 kilometers, and a maximum flight time of up to 25 minutes, this cutting-edge aircraft promises a new era of unmanned aerial transportation.

Editor: Zhang Fangyu