ZAI is involved in a Navy sponsored SBIR for the development of an atmospheric/ oceanographic research aircraft called the Pelican.

The Pelican is capable of both manned and autonomous flight modes.

Aircraft capabilities include:

Pusher configuration that allows unobstructed forward looking instrumentation

Large nose payload section for instruments (up to 350lbs) Instrument Installation in Pelican Aircraft

External wing mounted payloads available

Large fuselage volume available

Total useful load of ~ 2000lbs

Fuel capacity of up to 180 gal

Endurance capability in excess of 12 hrs

ZAI was awarded the prestigious Tibbets Award for Innovative Research for the successful implementation of this project