Giant Electric Aircraft Aces Major Flight Test in China

Aviation company AutoFlight just flew the world's first 5-ton electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft through a complete flight sequence, marking a major step toward cleaner skies.

The Matrix aircraft completed its full transition flight test in Kunshan, China, smoothly moving from vertical takeoff through cruise mode to vertical landing. This tricky maneuver often trips up new aircraft designs, making the successful test a significant milestone.

The scale of this aircraft is impressive. With a 65-foot wingspan and room for 10 passengers, the Matrix dwarfs most electric air taxis currently in development. For comparison, the two-seat eHang VT35 has less than half the wingspan at just 27 feet.

AutoFlight designed the Matrix with 20 lift motors arranged across six rails on its compound wings. This setup provides crucial backup power if one or even two engines fail during flight. The all-electric version can fly 155 miles on a single charge, while a hybrid model extends that range to an incredible 932 miles.

The passenger version will offer business-class comfort with bathrooms, climate control, ambient lighting, and oversized windows. The cargo variant can haul up to 3,300 pounds in standard shipping containers, opening doors for cleaner logistics operations.

The Ripple Effect

This breakthrough extends beyond just one impressive aircraft. AutoFlight's technology could transform emergency medical transport, getting help to remote areas faster without the noise and emissions of traditional helicopters. The cargo capacity makes it practical for disaster relief, delivering supplies where roads are damaged or inaccessible.

The company already operates a smaller 2-ton cargo aircraft and recently unveiled plans for solar-powered floating airports along rivers and coastlines. These innovations work together to create an entire ecosystem of clean aviation infrastructure.

While pricing and availability remain under wraps, AutoFlight is positioning itself to compete with better-known names like Joby and Archer Aviation. The difference? AutoFlight is thinking bigger, literally, focusing on aircraft that can move more people and cargo at once.

The successful test proves that large-scale electric aviation isn't just a distant dream anymore.