World Record: BonV Aero’s Heavy Lift Drone Soars to 19,024 ft at Umling La

Background: Setting the Stage for a Milestone in UAV Technology

BonV Aero has made history by entering the International Book of Records after completing a record-breaking flight at an altitude of 19,024 feet (5,799 metres), carrying a 30kg payload. This remarkable achievement demonstrates BonV’s expertise in developing high altitude drones capable of performing in extreme environments.

The flight took place at Umling-la in Ladakh, one of the world’s highest motorable roads. With a maximum take-off weight of 100kg, BonV’s heavy payload drone outperformed traditional aircraft like the Cheetah helicopter, which can only lift 20kg under similar conditions.

Built entirely in-house, the UAV features advanced self-flying technology and can operate beyond the visual line of sight. This mission followed successful field trials at Udhampur Army HQ, where BonV completed Acceptance Test Procedures for 13 drone systems delivered to the Indian Army.

“This is a proud moment,” said CEO Satyabrata Satapathy. BonV Aero continues to lead innovation in aerial mobility and logistics.

The achievement is not only a testament to the company’s in-house research and development but also to its design capabilities and indigenous propulsion system.

Abinash Sahoo, Co-Founder & CTO, emphasised the diverse use-cases for this platform, including applications in the humanitarian aid and disaster response (HADR) segment.

Journey to Manali – A New UAV Innovation in Tow

The next stop on BonV Aero’s journey was Manali, where the team met with a group from Odisha who had brought along a newly developed high altitude drone. There was a real sense of excitement, as this drone was about to be tested in some of the most demanding conditions yet.

The mission had two main goals:

• To demonstrate the UAV system at a special event for the Army Chief in the Muth area
• To test a next-gen propulsion system built for altitudes up to 19,000 feet

With the airframe and ground systems ready, the team aimed to push the limits of drone technology and prove the capabilities of their heavy payload drone.

Trials in Nyoma – Coping with Altitude and Testing the System

On 15 July, both teams arrived in Manali and began their journey towards Nyoma, where they would spend the next 20 days preparing for what would become a historic success. After a long and tiring journey, they reached Nyoma on 16 July and got some well-deserved rest before getting started.

At 14,500 feet, the altitude quickly took its toll. Team members suffered from headaches, sickness, and extreme fatigue. But with determination, medication, and a steady pace, the team carried on and began their initial tests. They began with one flight daily, slowly acclimatising and testing the heavy payload capacity drone system on the ground

Over the next few days, they slowly adjusted to the conditions. They started with one flight each day, while continuing tests on the propulsion system on the ground. By 19 July, they were ready to increase activity but strong winds made flying difficult. The team adapted by flying early in the morning when the weather was calmer.

Moving to Kangsangla Top – Tackling 17,851 Feet

After five days of testing and adapting, the team moved on to Kangsangla Top, 100 kilometres from Nyoma, located at an altitude of 17,851 feet. Despite cold temperatures and strong winds, the team successfully set up their equipment and ran several flight tests. The data collected during these tests was crucial for proving how the propulsion system performs in thin air.

Teaming Up with the Indian Army

Once testing at Kangsangla was complete, the team returned to Nyoma with greater confidence. Now used to the conditions, they pushed their testing further flying in wind speeds up to 60 km/h. The results were very promising.

They also worked closely with the Indian Army, preparing two more drone systems from Udhampur and training Army personnel on how to operate them. Despite a tight schedule, the team managed the testing and training while ensuring proper rest and focus.

Final Phase: Breaking the World Record at Umling La (19,024 ft)

Finally, on 10 August, the team reached Umling La Pass, the world’s highest motorable road, standing at an incredible 19,024 feet. The challenge was clear: fly our high altitude drone and lift a 30 kg payload at this extreme altitude.

With tension high and everyone fully focused, the drone took off and the mission was a complete success. The drone lifted the 30 kg payload at 19,024 feet, breaking previous records and proving that BonV Aero’s heavy payload drones can work in some of the world’s most extreme conditions.

A Global First for BonV Aero and Indian Drone Technology

This mission wasn’t just about setting a world record. It showed the commitment, skill, and determination of the BonV Aero team. Despite facing tough terrain, harsh weather, and physical strain, the team proved that their heavy lift logistic drone system can change how we think about high-altitude logistics.

This achievement sets a new standard for what’s possible in drone-based supply chains, defence operations, and disaster response. It also strengthens BonV Aero’s role as a global leader in drone innovation.

Our Proven Capability at the Highest Level

BonV Aero is a leading logistics drone manufacturers in India , developing defence-grade UAVs built to perform in extreme conditions high altitudes, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. The Umling La mission proved our heavy payload capacity drones can lift significant loads even at 19,000 feet.

Through close Army collaboration, breakthrough propulsion technology, and unmatched determination, we continue to raise the bar for what drone logistics can achieve. We’re committed to developing high payload drones that meet the demands of tomorrow’s critical missions.