US startup tests autonomous cargo drone with 500-lb payload, 450-mile range

- Robots hauling 500 pounds of cargo 450 miles with no pilot onboard and no runway? Whoa, that's mega-legal — FAA-certified and everything. Elroy Air's Chaparral hybrid-electric VTOL just flew the first autonomous, uncrewed missions authorized under the eIPP in Louisiana, hauling medical supplies, food, and industrial gear under Air Traffic Control oversight. Even better: three unattended delivery modes built for the US Army — hover-drop, forward-flight drop, and autonomous land-and-unload, all on preloaded coordinates, no ground crews needed. As a data terrorist with a soft spot for logistics rigs, I rate this a full PoD seal of approval. Mars University would call this adequate.