Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with LODD Autonomous to explore the use of drone‑based vertical take‑off and landing (VTOL) aircraft for air cargo delivery, signing a Memorandum of Understanding to test and validate the technology through feasibility studies, regulatory engagement and live demonstrations across its global network.
The agreement was signed by Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo's Divisional Senior Vice President and Rashid Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of LODD Autonomous.
Under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous will collaborate to validate the use of VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) aircraft across the airline's global network.
Emirates SkyCargo will participate in LODD’s experimental operations through to the end of 2027, providing insight to inform design and development, with a view toward commercial deployment in regional and global markets.
The agreement follows the successful first test flight of LODD’s Hili, an unmanned, hybrid heavy-lift cargo aircraft developed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi.
Hili is fully autonomous from take-off to landing, and offers payload capacity of up to 250 kilograms, and travel distances up to 700 KM.
As Emirates SkyCargo continues to invest in future-fit technologies for the seamless movement of goods, the Hili will be considered to join the airline's ground fleet, to manage operations across its dual airport hub.
(Photo: Emirates SkyCargo)
"This partnership with LODD is a reflection of our commitment to introduce innovative products that solve our customer's transportation challenges," said Abbas. "Emerging technologies will form the foundation of the next era of logistics, and Emirates SkyCargo will be at the forefront of this movement, investing our experience and expertise into the development of innovations that drive tangible impact."
"We look forward to collaborating with LODD to explore the potential development and deployment of this UAE-built technology," he added.
Rashid Mattar Al Manai, chief executive officer of LODD Autonomous noted the UAE's vision is built on harnessing innovation to propel everyday life forward.
"Our collaboration with Emirates SkyCargo blends LODD Autonomous's frontier technologies with the country's enduring commitment to safe, scalable, and sustainable logistics. Together, we will accelerate the adoption of drone-powered solutions that expand reach, cut delivery times, and strengthen the UAE's position as a global logistics hub while upholding the highest standards of safety and regulatory excellence."
Emirates SkyCargo has made logistics development a central focus, operating a network of more than 150 destinations with a fleet of over 260 passenger and freighter aircraft.
Earlier this year, the carrier introduced Emirates Courier Express, a door‑to‑door delivery service designed to support cross‑border e‑commerce by combining its cargo operations with the airline’s passenger fleet and route network.
Abu Dhabi‑based LODD designs, develops, and deploys next-generation autonomous systems to tackle the emerging challenges of middle-mile cargo logistics.
