How Emirates SkyCargo is bringing drone-powered cargo delivery to reality
UAE-made autonomous heavy-lift drones set new standards in regional cargo delivery
DUBAI – Emirates SkyCargo has taken a bold step towards transforming the future of logistics with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with LODD Autonomous at the 2025 Dubai Airshow.
The collaboration aims to explore drone-powered cargo delivery, using next-generation autonomous aircraft to achieve faster, more efficient, and scalable operations. As the UAE advances towards its aspiration to become one of the world’s top five logistics hubs, this partnership highlights the integration of innovation, aviation, and sustainability.
The MoU was signed by Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, and Rashid Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of LODD Autonomous. The agreement focuses on the validation of VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) aircraft across Emirates SkyCargo’s global network, supported by feasibility studies, regulatory assessments, and live demonstrations.
Groundbreaking technology
Under the agreement, Emirates SkyCargo will collaborate in LODD’s experimental operations through to the end of 2027, sharing its extensive expertise to support the design and development of drone cargo solutions. The airline will examine the practical deployment of the technology for commercial use, with potential applications across regional and international markets.
Central to this innovation is Hili, LODD’s flagship unmanned hybrid cargo aircraft, which recently completed its first successful test flight. Developed and manufactured entirely in Abu Dhabi, Hili is fully autonomous from take-off to landing, has a payload capacity of up to 250 kilograms, and can cover distances of up to 700 kilometres.
Next-level logistics
As part of its forward-looking strategy, Emirates SkyCargo will evaluate the integration of Hili into its ground fleet to support operations across Dubai’s dual airport hub. The adoption of unmanned heavy-lift aircraft could streamline cargo movement, expand reach, and potentially reduce delivery turnaround times.
Badr Abbas said the partnership reflects Emirates SkyCargo’s commitment to introducing innovative products that address transportation challenges and support the next era of logistics. The airline will contribute its industry expertise to guide the development of safe, efficient, and scalable drone-powered operations.
Deployment vision
Rashid Mattar Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, highlighted that the collaboration blends frontier technologies with the UAE’s commitment to innovation-led growth. He said the initiative will accelerate the adoption of autonomous cargo solutions, expand connectivity, and help position the UAE as a leader in sustainable and smart logistics.
Emirates SkyCargo operates a widebody fleet of more than 260 aircraft serving over 150 destinations globally, offering seamless connectivity for time-sensitive and complex cargo. Earlier this year, the airline launched Emirates Courier Express, a door-to-door cross-border eCommerce service that merges cargo expertise with passenger network efficiency.
UAE innovation ecosystem
Founded in 2023 and headquartered in Abu Dhabi, LODD Autonomous designs and develops next-generation unmanned aerial systems for middle-mile cargo logistics. Supported by the Advanced Technology Research Council, the company focuses on operational efficiency, sustainability, and scalability in autonomous logistics.
With Hili as its core technology platform, LODD is laying the foundations for an advanced air mobility ecosystem that supports global cargo operations, while showcasing the UAE’s commitment to homegrown innovation – from strategy and research to development and deployment.