Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous Collaborated for Drone Cargo
Emirates SkyCargo and Abu Dhabi based LODD Autonomous have signed a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of autonomous air cargo systems.
Emirates SkyCargo and Abu Dhabi based LODD Autonomous have signed a strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of autonomous drone cargo systems. The agreement signed at the Dubai Airshow represents an important step in the UAE’s logistics transformation and reflects the country’s goal of positioning itself as one of the world’s leading logistics hubs.
Next Generation Cargo Drone: Carries 250 kg, Has a Range of 700 km
The focus of the collaboration will be to validate the use of vertical take-off and landing aircraft across Emirates SkyCargo’s global network. Through feasibility studies, coordination with regulatory authorities and live demonstrations lasting until 2027, the potential for autonomous drones to support regional and international cargo operations will be evaluated. Emirates SkyCargo will also examine the possibility of integrating LODD’s newly tested Hili drone into ground operations at its dual airport hub in Dubai.
Hili, designed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi, is an unmanned hybrid heavy lift drone capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms and reaching a range of 700 kilometers. Its successful test flight has accelerated interest in commercial applications and paved the way for broader adoption of autonomous cargo vehicles.
The Collaboration Strengthens the UAE’s Logistics Vision
Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous see this collaboration as an opportunity aligned with the UAE’s goal of building a stronger logistics infrastructure. The initiative brings together Emirates SkyCargo’s operational scale with LODD Autonomous’s advanced technologies to increase efficiency, reduce delivery times and expand the reach of cargo services. This process also supports the UAE’s national focus on creating safe, scalable and sustainable supply chain systems.
Emirates SkyCargo is rapidly expanding its innovation agenda with new products and services such as Emirates Courier Express, a door to door delivery service launched to strengthen e-commerce. With its global network covering more than 150 destinations and a fleet of over 260 wide body aircraft, the company aims to be a leader in digital and operational transformation.
The Adoption of Drone Assisted Logistics Applications Will Accelerate
Executives from both companies highlighted the long-term impact of the collaboration. Badr Abbas from Emirates SkyCargo stated that the collaboration reflects their commitment to developing innovative solutions to solve complex transportation challenges and emphasized that autonomous aircraft will play an important role in the new era of logistics.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, stated that the initiative is fully aligned with the UAE’s vision of integrating advanced technologies into everyday life. He said that this collaboration will accelerate the adoption of drone assisted logistics applications and strengthen the UAE’s global logistics position while maintaining the highest safety and regulatory standards.
This initiative stands out as part of the UAE’s strategy to strengthen its national technology ecosystem from research to development and large-scale deployment. As the testing process progresses, the partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous is expected to play an important role in shaping the future of autonomous cargo transportation in the region and beyond.