What Happened
Louisiana Airport Hosts Nation's First Autonomous Drone Freight Flight
The Houma-Terrebonne Airport in Louisiana has made US aviation history by hosting the nation’s first unmanned aircraft flight carrying commercial freight. Elroy Air’s autonomous Chaparral drone, nicknamed ‘Chappy,’ successfully carried a payload of Jerry cans, a pelican case, Fed Ex packages, and a military rucksack. This achievement is part of a phased approach to develop the drone’s capabilities, with Bristow ordering 100 of the aircraft for various operations. A new $3 million facility will also support aviation research and collaboration at the airport. This milestone was reported by The Courier, a USA TODAY Network publication via Reuters Connect.