China Unveils the Biggest Unmanned Cargo Aircraft

China is at the forefront of technological innovation, continuously developing advanced solutions in various sectors, including aviation.

From cutting-edge fighter jets to state-of-the-art drones, the country is making significant strides in aerospace technology. In line with this trend, Chinese aviation startup Air White Whale has unveiled its latest creation, the W5000, touted as the world’s largest cargo-carrying drone.

On October 22, 2024, at its production facility in Changzhou, eastern China, Air White Whale introduced the W5000, a remarkable unmanned transport aircraft designed to revolutionize freight transportation. This twin-turboprop aircraft boasts an impressive maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 10.8 tonnes and can carry a payload of up to five tonnes.

With an internal cargo space exceeding 65 cubic meters, the W5000 is positioned to meet the growing demand for efficient freight solutions, particularly within the Chinese domestic market.

The specifications of the W5000 are notable: it features a wingspan of 22.7 meters, a length of 22.9 meters, and a cruising speed of 326.8 mph (526 km/h). It has a commercial range of 2,600 kilometers and can operate at a maximum altitude of 6,000 meters. The aircraft is also designed with retractable landing gear and is compatible with standard cargo pallets, allowing for various loading and unloading methods.

Air White Whale has confirmed that the W5000’s airworthiness application has been accepted by the Civil Aviation Administration of China, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in the second half of 2026.

This new aircraft not only enhances logistics capabilities but also offers a significant advantage over traditional cargo planes through its unmanned operation, which substantially reduces operating costs. According to the manufacturer, a single ground-based pilot can manage up to five W5000 drones simultaneously, streamlining operations even further.

Industry analysts suggest that the W5000 could represent a significant advancement in the logistics sector as the aviation landscape evolves. With its spacious cargo capacity and unmanned functionality, the W5000 is seen as a potential game-changer in the logistics industry, providing cost-effective transportation solutions that could reshape freight services.

Air White Whale plans to showcase the W5000 at the upcoming China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, where it aims to demonstrate the drone’s regional capabilities across Southeast and Central Asia, as well as Russia and Japan. As China continues to push the boundaries of aerospace technology, the W5000 stands as a testament to the country’s innovative spirit and commitment to enhancing global logistics networks.