Cargo Drones
Discover cutting-edge solutions from 19 leading global suppliers
Skyways has demonstrated the capability of its long-range autonomous unmanned cargo aircraft by completing a series of Beyond the Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) deliveries to the Arkona Offshore Windfarm.
The windfarm is operated by RWE and located off the coast of Germany. The operation, in partnership with RWE and Skyports Drone Services, proved that essential cargo can be delivered to remote offshore locations faster, safer, and more sustainably than traditional methods.
During the three-week pilot, the Skyways V2 aircraft conducted automated 50-mile round trips from RWE’s seaside base to the windfarm in the Baltic Sea. The aircraft was able to carry payloads of up to 22 pounds and handle winds up to 29.7 knots. The flights involved precise cargo drops directly to the wind turbines, offering a new logistical tool for operators.
Typically, operators rely on crew transfer vessels that adhere to set schedules and require two hours for the same journey; Skyways completed the trip in just 26 minutes on demand.
Charles Acknin, CEO of Skyways, said, “At Skyways, our mission is simple: deliver what matters, where it matters, when it matters. This successful effort with our partners at Skyports and RWE once again proves our aircraft can provide offshore operators with a level of service no other delivery option can match. Whether it’s a time-critical part, medical supplies, or urgent cargo in hard-to-reach and harsh environments, Skyways can get it there.”
The Skyways aircraft are engineered for long-range operations through a dual-hybrid system, combining electric motors for Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) with a heavy-fuel engine for extended cruise flight. This design gives the V2 an operational range of almost 500 miles, with the next-generation V3 expected to have a range over 1,000 miles. This capability is intended to allow the aircraft to complete missions where conventional logistics solutions are too slow, too costly, or impossible.
Acknin added, “Standing up beyond-visual-line-of-sight operations offshore is no small feat. We’re proud to see Skyways’ aircraft chosen for some of the toughest missions out there, and prouder still to know we’re helping our customers keep the world running.”
Skyways is now said to be focused on scaling production of its aircraft to meet growing demand from commercial and government customers worldwide.
