Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster Eyes Cargo Drone Specialization

As supply chains continue to reshape around the globe, companies are turning to cargo fleets to tap into emerging market opportunities in northern Mexico.  Among them is  the Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster, which intends to specialize in cargo drones.

"We have to focus on electrification and delve deeply into autonomous unmanned vehicles and hybrid technologies," says Luis Azua, president, Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster. Despite this pivot, the organization remains committed to the aerospace sector, recognizing its significant potential for Mexican companies, he added. 

The market for cargo drones encompasses both light and heavy deliveries. Factors such as propeller size, type, and number, as well as battery weight and power, play crucial roles in determining a drone’s weight capacity, flight time, range, and maximum lifting capacity.

Today, cargo drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), come in various configurations, ranging from quadcopters with four propellers to hexacopters and beyond. These configurations influence the drone's capabilities and limitations in terms of payload, flight time, and range.

While some cargo drones can handle payloads ranging from 10 kg to 227 kg, their operational autonomy is often constrained. However, companies are actively working to overcome these limitations by enhancing ranges, payload capacities, and speed.

Recent advancements in cargo drone technology include Alphabet's new iteration of its flagship delivery Wing drone, boasting increased cargo capacity and impressive speed. Similarly, FlyingBasket unveiled the FB3, a commercial drone capable of carrying oversized cargo of up to 100 kg, demonstrating versatility across diverse environments.