FedEx Express (FX, Memphis International) has teamed up with California-based Elroy Air, which is building the first end-to-end autonomous electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial cargo system.

FedEx Express will develop plans to test Elroy Air’s Chaparral autonomous air cargo system within the company’s logistics operations, moving shipments between sortation locations, the companies announced in a joint statement.

Elroy Air announced its Chaparral autonomous aircraft in January 2022. It is an eVTOL aerial cargo system that can autonomously pick up 136 to 226 kgs of cargo and deliver it by air up to 482kms. The Chaparral is capable of longer-range flights without additional infrastructure, such as airports or charging stations.

FedEx and Elroy Air have been working together since January 2020 and will continue their collaboration to pursue certifications. Flight testing would begin in 2023.

The move was in line with FedEx’s strategy to explore and adopt emerging technologies across its networks to enhance the logistics industry through improved safety, efficiency and customer service, said Senior Vice President: Global Planning, Engineering, and Technology, Joe Stephens. He said the exponential growth of e-commerce had accelerated demand for reliable, efficient transportation and logistics solutions throughout all supply chain stages.