BEIJING: China’s self-developed electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, weighing over two tonnes, completed its first offshore cargo delivery on Sunday, marking a breakthrough in offshore logistics and a key step forward in low-altitude logistics applications across land and sea.
The aircraft, named V2000CG CarryAll, took off from a land-based launch site in south China’s Shenzhen City, carrying supplies such as fresh fruit and emergency medical goods. After a 58-minute flight over open water, it landed on an offshore oil and gas platform 150 kilometers away from the coast, completing its cross-sea mission.
According to Ren Yongyi, deputy manager of the coordination department at the Shenzhen branch of China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), the eVTOL offers clear advantages over traditional cargo methods that rely on ships and helicopters. These include lower operating costs, faster response time, zero emissions, smoother rides, and the ability to land in confined spaces.
For years, offshore oil platforms in China have relied primarily on ships for supply runs, often taking over 10 hours for a single trip. In emergencies, helicopters are used, but at significantly higher operational costs.
“This test flight represents the integration of cutting-edge aviation technology, mature operational experience, and the real demands of offshore operations,” said Ren.
“It creates a full-chain application model combining aircraft development, operational deployment, and real-world scenarios.” –The Daily Mail-CGTN news exchange item
