These test flights will initially be configured to make deliveries over medium distances between FedEx warehouses.

Named “Chaparral”, the drone in question, developed by Elroy Air, will be able to carry a load of between 135kg and 225kg and deliver them over a distance of up to 480km.

In terms of technology, this drone has eight rotors and four electric thrusters. It is billed as the very first autonomous air cargo system with vertical take-off and landing.

In absolute terms, it will be able to carry out flights over a longer range. Another advantage is that it does not require additional infrastructure; it can take off and land vertically almost anywhere.

The goal is to reach more people more quickly than is currently possible. Initial tests will take place in the middle section of logistics operations – that is, journeys between different sorting locations, as part of FedEx’s desire to automate its delivery chain.

Back on terra firma, FedEx has already partnered with the US startup Aurora, which specialises in autonomous driving systems, to test freight transport via fully automated trucks, again for trips from depot to depot.