Parallel Flight Technologies Appoints Drone Forge to Distribute Firefly Hybrid Heavy-Lift Drone in Asia-Pacific

On October 15, California-based Parallel Flight Technologies (PFT) announced a strategic distribution agreement with Drone Forge, an Australian company specializing in uncrewed systems integration and support. Under the agreement, Drone Forge will distribute PFT's Firefly heavy-lift aircraft across the Asia-Pacific region, initially focusing on Australia and its territories. Drone Forge will first handle sales, customer integration and regional operational support, with plans to expand into maintenance, service and training. Potential applications include mining, maritime operations, critical infrastructure, emergency response and defense.

Sarah Abdi, head of business development at PFT, said the company anticipates Firefly aircraft on the ground in Australia in 2027, along with broader activities across the region. Firefly uses a patented Parallel Hybrid Electric Multirotor (PHEM) propulsion system that combines fuel-based power generation with electric propulsion. The manufacturer states the aircraft can carry up to 100 pounds (45 kilograms) for about 1.4 hours, with endurance up to ten times that of comparable all-electric aircraft, and can supply up to 2 kilowatts of continuous electrical power to onboard payloads. Actual performance will depend on operating conditions, configuration and payload.

Earlier this year, PFT received an FAA exemption under Section 44807, providing a pathway for commercial operation in the United States, subject to applicable conditions and authorizations. That exemption does not automatically allow commercial operation in other countries. Abdi said PFT is building on it and working with Drone Forge to meet the requirements of Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).