The big challenge for drones was transporting loads over kilometers. A Chinese company has solved it with hydrogen

China’s AECC successfully tested the AEP100, a megawatt-scale hydrogen turboprop, on a 7.5-ton cargo drone.

The test flight lasted 16 minutes, reached 300 meters, covered 36 kilometers, and landed safely.

The engine ran steadily throughout, marking a move from lab trials toward real cargo aviation use.

The program is targeting certification in 2027 for unmanned air-logistics applications.