Pyka introduces Pelican 2 with expanded payload and FAA approval

The upgraded autonomous agricultural aircraft features a 300-litre capacity, FAA commercial authorisation and a major order in Brazil for large-scale operations.

Pyka has introduced its next-generation autonomous agricultural spray aircraft, the Pelican 2. With an expanded 300-litre payload and the ability to cover up to 90 hectares per hour, it is the world’s largest and most productive electric agricultural aircraft.

The Pelican 2 has secured FAA commercial approval in the United States, making it the largest uncrewed aerial system (UAS) ever cleared for commercial use, followed only by Pyka’s original Pelican. The approval strengthens Pyka’s position in heavy-lift UAS operations both in the U.S. and globally.

The company has also received an order for 20 aircraft in Brazil, expanding its presence in one of the world’s largest agricultural markets. The aircraft’s capabilities will enable large-scale autonomous aerial application operations, improving efficiency and lowering costs for growers.

Michael Norcia, Pyka's Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, says: “With nearly five years of commercial operation under our belt, this aircraft exhibits the reliability, performance and ease of operation that growers demand.”

The aircraft includes an upgraded four-motor electric propulsion system, an 18-metre swath width, LIDAR and RADAR for autonomous operation and hot-swappable lithium-ion batteries. It available to purchase from Pyka, priced at $550,000.

Pelican 2 publicly debuted at California's World Ag Expo earlier in February 2025, where it won a Top 10 New Products Award.