7 Best Heavy Lift Drones for Sale 2024 (Very Large Drones)
The popularity of commercial drones has been growing rapidly over the last few years. Initially seen as fragile devices with limited capabilities, drones have now evolved into powerful tools capable of carrying substantial payloads. Heavy lift drones, in particular, are large drones designed to carry and operate payloads weighing 10 pounds or more. These drones are used for transporting cargo, packages, food, medical supplies, and even heavy-duty cameras for photography and videography.
If you’re searching for a heavy-duty drone that can handle significant weight, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ll review the best heavy lift drones available in the market today. We’ll also explore how these drones work and the maximum weight they can carry.
One of the most impressive heavy lift drones on the market is the JOUAV PH-20. This hexacopter drone is engineered to effortlessly carry payloads of up to 22 pounds, making it an ideal choice for carrying high-quality LiDAR equipment. It boasts a maximum flight time of 70 minutes and a top speed of 64.8 km/h, allowing you to cover vast areas with great agility.
Crafted from a blend of aluminum alloy and high-performance composite materials, the PH-20 is not only strong but also lightweight. It integrates an intelligent flight system, a triple redundancy IMU, and adaptive controls for ultimate precision. Its onboard microcomputer can manage a variety of data types seamlessly. The drone also includes fail-safe measures, such as automatic return in case of data link loss or low voltage, ensuring added security. With obstacle avoidance radar, an IP55 protection rating, a wind resistance rating of 8, and a maximum altitude of 4,500 meters, the PH-20 excels in challenging environments.
Key specs include:
- Maximum lifting weight: 10 kg (22 lbs)
- Flight time: 70 minutes
- Maximum speed: 64.8 km/h (no wind)
- Maximum transmission distance: 30 km
- Maximum take-off weight: 29.2 kg
- Maximum wind resistance: Level 8
- Protection level: IP55
Another standout drone is the JOUAV CW-30E, a very versatile VTOL fixed-wing drone. Known for its efficiency and autonomy, the CW-30E is one of the most effective surveillance drones on the market. With a flight time of up to 600 minutes, a maximum speed of 90 km/h, and a transmission distance of up to 200 km, it offers impressive capabilities. The CW-30E is equipped with a built-in MG-170E dual EO/IR gimbal camera, allowing it to perform AI-based automatic identification, tracking, and positioning of people and objects, transmitting real-time video to the command center.
Its applications span border patrol, emergency response, energy inspection, firefighting, search and rescue, and more. The CW-30E is easy to use thanks to its fantastic autopilot system and excellent obstacle avoidance system, which enable it to take off, capture data, and land autonomously.
Key specs include:
- Maximum lifting weight: 10 kg (22 lbs)
- Flight time: 600 minutes
- Maximum speed: 90 km/h
- Maximum transmission distance: 100/200 km (optional)
- Size: Fuselage - 2300 mm, Wingspan - 4600 mm
- Maximum takeoff weight: 45 kg
- Operating temperature: -20° to 55°C
The Freefly Alta X is another remarkable drone, known for its cinematic capabilities. With a lifting capacity of 35 lbs (15 kg), the Alta X redefines what’s possible in cinematography. Whether you're capturing breathtaking landscapes, dynamic action sequences, or intricate aerial shots, the Alta X empowers your creative vision like never before. Its robust design and cutting-edge engineering ensure stability and precision, even when carrying heavy camera setups.
The Alta X features an impressive flight time of 20 minutes, combining endurance with power. Depending on payload and environmental conditions, flight time can vary, providing flexibility for a range of shooting scenarios. With a top speed of 95 km/h, you can effortlessly track fast-paced subjects, creating stunning cinematic sequences.
Key specs include:
- Maximum lifting weight: 15 kg (35 lbs)
- Flight time: 20 minutes (depending on payload and environment)
- Maximum speed: 95 km/h
- Maximum transmission distance: 5 km
- Unfolded diameter: 2273 mm × 877 mm × 387 mm (including props)
- Typical standard empty weight: 10.86 kg
- Operating temperature: -10° to 40°C
When considering purchasing a heavy lift drone, there are several factors to keep in mind. First, determine the purpose of the drone—whether it’s for aerial photography, cargo delivery, or other specialized tasks. Second, consider the flight time required for your intended use. Drones with shorter flight times may not be suitable for long-distance missions. Third, evaluate the type of payload the drone can carry and how it will be integrated into the drone. Lastly, consider the price and whether it fits within your budget.
In summary, heavy lift drones are transforming industries by offering unprecedented capabilities in terms of payload capacity and operational efficiency. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a logistics provider, or someone working in emergency services, there’s a heavy lift drone tailored to meet your specific needs.