World's First Hybrid-Electric Unmanned Cargo Aircraft Makes Successful Maiden Flight

According to Xinhua News Agency, the world's first hybrid-electric unmanned cargo aircraft, the Caihong YH-1000S, recently completed its successful maiden flight in Liangping, Chongqing. The aircraft was developed by the 11th Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).

This represents a rapid iteration on the original Caihong YH-1000 unmanned cargo aircraft, which had its maiden flight in May 2025, designed to meet the evolving demands of the global market. For its first flight, the YH-1000S was equipped with a high-power hybrid-electric powertrain co-developed with a new energy vehicle manufacturer. This configuration shortened its takeoff and landing distances while increasing its payload capacity and range. The flight successfully completed the verification of its airborne performance.