AutoFlight unveils 5-ton Matrix after full transition flight

The aircraft completed vertical take-off, cruise and vertical landing during a public demonstration at the company’s test facility.

AutoFlight has unveiled Matrix, described as the world’s first 5-ton class electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, after it successfully completed a public full transition flight demonstration at its low-altitude flight test facility.

During the demonstration, Matrix completed the full mode transition flight sequence, moving from vertical take-off through cruise flight to vertical landing. The company says the achievement validates its eVTOL technologies across aerodynamic systems, high-power electric propulsion and advanced flight control systems, and represents the first time a 5-ton eVTOL has achieved full transition flight.

Matrix features a 20-metre wingspan, 17.1-metre length and 3.3-metre height, with a maximum take-off weight of 5,700kg.

The aircraft will be offered in passenger and cargo variants. The passenger version accommodates either 10 business-class seats or six VIP seats. The cargo variant uses a hybrid power system and supports a maximum payload of 1,500kg. It includes a forward-opening door capable of accommodating two AKE standard air cargo containers.

Tian Yu, CEO and Founder of AutoFlight, says: “Matrix is not only a rising star in the aviation industry but also an ambitious industry disruptor. It will break the industry perception that eVTOL = short-haul, low-load, and will reshape the rules of eVTOL routes. Through economies of scale, it significantly reduces transportation costs per seat-kilometer and ton-kilometer, revolutionizing costs and embracing profitability. It covers all scenarios from urban commuting to intercity feeder routes, driving the expansion of the entire low-altitude ecosystem.”

Matrix uses AutoFlight’s compound wing Lift and Cruise configuration with a triplane layout and six-arm structure.

The pure electric version offers a maximum range of 250km, while the hybrid-electric variant extends range to 1,500km. The platform is positioned for regional travel, logistics operations and emergency response missions.