Chinese unmanned aerial vehicle developer, United Aircraft, has unveiled a concept design at the Singapore Airshow for an autonomous tiltrotor intended to fly cargo missions in the near term and seven-10 passengers in the long term.

The move is part of the company’s broader push to popularize large UAVs in more sectors.

United Aircraft said it is currently pioneering a tilt-rotor UAV, a significant innovation in aerial technology. This advanced model can support a maximum takeoff weight of 6 tons and offers the capability to carry passengers autonomously.

Designed for long-distance travel, the tilt-rotor UAV can undertake inter-regional flights spanning up to 1,500 kilometers, which is poised to enhance transportation and logistics efficiency markedly. The announcement of this groundbreaking UAV has attracted considerable interest from many international clients, who are keenly looking forward to its deployment in their respective localities.

Tian Gangyin, founder and CEO of United Aircraft, said "The project has advanced beyond the detailed design phase and is now in full trial production.”

He indicated a potential landmark year in 2024 for the company, which is also exploring opportunities for equity financing.

Tian said the hybrid design of the tilt-rotor drones amalgamates the vertical takeoff and landing ability of helicopters with the high-speed cruising performance of fixed-wing aircraft. "It’s capable of traveling over 300 kilometers, just like the ‘flying taxi’. They hold the promise of liberating individuals from the constraints of their work locations in relation to their living spaces, potentially transforming human lifestyles and city planning," Tian said.

The company also showcased a string of large UAVs, including the TD550 which boasts a considerable payload capacity of up to 200 kilograms and is capable of reaching altitudes as high as 6,500 meters at its exhibition hall at the Singapore Airshow.