Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous Sign MoU to Explore New Drone-Powered Delivery Solutions

Published on November 23, 2025

Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Dubai Airshow 2025 to explore the development and implementation of next-generation air cargo solutions.

The agreement was signed by Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, and Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous. Under the MoU, the two companies will collaborate on validating the use of Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft across Emirates’ global network. This will involve feasibility studies, regulator engagement, and live demonstrations. Emirates SkyCargo, leveraging over four decades of experience in global cargo movement, will participate in LODD’s experimental operations through the end of 2027. The goal is to inform design and development for commercial implementation in regional and global markets.

This partnership follows the successful first flight test of LODD’s Hili aircraft last week, a hybrid unmanned heavy-lift cargo plane developed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi. The Hili aircraft is fully autonomous from take-off to landing and boasts a payload capacity of 250 kilograms and a range of up to 700 kilometers. As part of Emirates SkyCargo’s investment in future technologies for seamless cargo movement, the Hili aircraft is also being considered for integration into the airline’s ground fleet to manage operations at its dual airport hubs.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

In response to the signing, Badr Abbas commented, “This partnership with LODD reflects our commitment to introducing innovative products that address our customers’ transportation challenges. New technologies will form the foundation for the next era of logistics, and Emirates SkyCargo is proud to be at the forefront of this movement, investing our expertise into developing innovations that deliver tangible impacts. We look forward to working with LODD to explore the potential of this UAE-made technology.”

Rashid Mattar Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, remarked, “The UAE’s vision is built on utilizing innovation to advance daily life. Our collaboration with Emirates SkyCargo brings together LODD Autonomous’ cutting-edge technology and the nation’s ongoing commitment to secure, scalable, and sustainable logistics. Together, we will accelerate the adoption of drone-powered solutions, expanding reach, reducing delivery times, and strengthening the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub, all while maintaining the highest safety and regulatory standards.”

Revolutionizing the Logistics Ecosystem

Advancing the logistics ecosystem has long been a priority for Emirates SkyCargo. Setting new benchmarks for excellence in the global logistics industry, the airline is a trusted partner connecting the world seamlessly with a network spanning over 150 destinations and a fleet of more than 260 passenger and cargo aircraft. Continuously challenging the status quo, earlier this year, the airline launched Emirates Courier Express, a groundbreaking cross-border e-commerce delivery service combining the cargo division’s logistics expertise with the airline’s passenger network and fleet.

Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Dubai Airshow 2025 to explore the development and implementation of next-generation air cargo solutions. Based in Abu Dhabi, LODD is transforming civilian logistics with advanced unmanned and autonomous aerial vehicles, as well as AI-based software that simplifies operations, reduces costs, increases sustainability, and accelerates delivery. Backed by the Advanced Technology Research Council, the development of the Hili aircraft and its potential integration into the operations of the world’s largest international airline showcases the UAE’s commitment to investing in its national technology ecosystem – from strategy and investment to research and application.