China has launched its first domestically developed mid-altitude, low-cost cargo aircraft, marking a milestone in its aerospace and logistics modernization. The aircraft, developed by AVIC in collaboration with CAAS, is designed for regional freight with a 2-ton payload capacity and operates efficiently between 6,000 and 9,000 meters.
- Aircraft developed by AVIC and CAAS for mid-altitude regional freight operations
- Operates between 6,000 and 9,000 meters with 2-ton payload capacity
- 30% lower production costs due to domestic components and modular design
- Deployment begins in 2026 with trials in Guangdong, Sichuan, and Xinjiang
- Potential to challenge UPS and FedEx in regional Asian logistics markets
China has officially introduced its first domestically produced mid-altitude, low-cost cargo aircraft, signaling a major advancement in the nation’s aerospace and freight logistics infrastructure. Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) in partnership with the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAS), the aircraft is engineered to serve regional cargo routes with improved cost-efficiency and operational flexibility. It can operate at altitudes ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 meters, enabling it to avoid congested low-level airspace while maintaining fuel economy and payload performance. The new aircraft features a 2-ton maximum payload capacity and is designed for short- to medium-haul operations, making it ideal for connecting secondary cities and remote logistics hubs. With a focus on cost reduction, the aircraft uses modular assembly techniques and domestically sourced components, lowering production costs by an estimated 30% compared to comparable international models. This development aligns with China’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic aerospace manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The rollout holds indirect implications for global freight operators such as UPS and FedEx, which may face increased competition in regional Asian markets. As Chinese cargo networks expand, the new aircraft could enable faster, more affordable delivery options within the country and neighboring regions. Its deployment is expected to begin in 2026, with initial service trials underway in Guangdong, Sichuan, and Xinjiang provinces.