China Achieves 30-Hour Flight Record with Hydrogen-Powered Drone

A recent achievement in the aviation sector has come from China, where a hydrogen-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) weighing 50 kilograms successfully achieved a continuous flight lasting 30 hours. This accomplishment not only sets a new domestic record among similarly classified aircraft but also positions the drone at an internationally leading standard for endurance, according to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).

The drone was developed through a collaborative effort between the Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Group Co. and Tsinghua University, and it integrates advanced design technologies for flight, propulsion, and control systems that leverage the characteristics of hydrogen fuel cells. As part of its innovative flight operations, the drone employed an autonomous integrated system consisting of both an unmanned ground vehicle and an aerial vehicle, effectively demonstrating its capabilities in non-standard runway conditions.

Equipped with an electro-optical payload, the UAV is capable of conducting ground patrols and surveillance with efficacy during its flights. The inclusion of a 5G onboard module allows for real-time transmission of telemetry data and mission-specific imagery to a remote monitoring platform, enhancing its operational effectiveness. This collaborative operational model is expected to have far-reaching applications in emergency communications, environmental monitoring, and border patrol activities.

Furthermore, the ability of these drones to remain airborne for extended periods during disaster relief operations enables them to provide crucial real-time visuals of affected areas. Users in smart city management can harness the drone's potential alongside AI technology to identify violations and initiate responses automatically. Industry experts noted that hydrogen energy systems surpass traditional lithium battery-powered drones in energy density, operational time, and environmental sustainability, making them perfectly suited for the evolving landscape of green aviation.

The innovations in aircraft hydrogen fuel cell technology differ significantly from those found in automotive applications, according to Shi Xin from the State Key Laboratory of Catalysis. This lighter and more powerful design prioritizes extended flight duration and functionality in extreme low-temperature conditions. With significant interest in the hydrogen drone sector, numerous Chinese companies are now actively working on research and development in this promising field. The CAIG anticipates that the new 50kg-class hydrogen-powered UAV will broaden operational applications within the low-altitude economy and contribute positively to advancements in green aviation and new business models in this emerging market.