Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is constantly redefining traditional air freight while supporting the airline’s overall business growth ambitions. The carrier recently signed an agreement with LODD Autonomous, a leader in advanced air transportation and autonomous logistics services, to explore the integration of the next generation Heli VTOL hybrid aircraft into operations in the UAE. This collaboration will complement traditional fleets with a fast, short-range capability that enhances operational flexibility and speed of service while ensuring lower emissions and more sustainable logistics.
With a payload capacity of 250 kilograms and a range of more than 700 kilometres, the Heli aircraft provides the ideal balance between capability and agility, being able to transport high-value cargo across a wide range of terrain and conditions.
The new partnership will focus on pilot operations to test the efficiency, safety and ground logistics compatibility of the pioneering LODD Autonomous drone for point-to-point transportation operations across the UAE. The impact on logistics could be significant, as Heli eliminates the need for runways and traditional airport infrastructure, reducing delivery times by hours or even days.
As part of the trial, Etihad Cargo will also explore the operational and commercial possibilities of incorporating Heli aircraft into its future fleet.
Stanislas Brun, Etihad Airways’ Chief Cargo Officer, said: “As an Abu Dhabi-based associate, LODD Services shares Etihad Cargo’s ambitions to transform the future of air transport. We are constantly looking for new ways to enhance connectivity within the UAE, empowering the individuals and companies responsible for every shipment. Together with LODD Autonomous, we hope to unlock new possibilities for air freight, creating smarter, faster and more sustainable ways to move goods across the country.”
LODD Autonomous, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, is transforming civilian logistics through automation, self-driving vehicles and AI-driven software. By streamlining processes, lowering costs and reducing emissions, its automated solutions serve industries including e-commerce, freight forwarding, healthcare and more. LODD Autonomous’s focus on reliable and efficient transportation aligns seamlessly with Etihad Cargo’s role as a local connector, ensuring every shipment is handled with precision and purpose.
“We designed the Hili Hybrid VTOL drone to address gaps in traditional logistics, especially in the medium mile segment,” added Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD Autonomous. By creating direct air corridors between logistics centers and warehouses, it enables smooth and fast transportation operations. This is especially important for high-value, time-sensitive shipments such as pharmaceuticals and industrial components, where even the slightest delay can disrupt operations and result in significant financial losses.
This partnership represents an exciting new chapter for Etihad Cargo and the medium-haul logistics sector, opening the door to new efficiencies that can transform how goods are moved across the UAE. By collaborating with companies such as LODD Autonomous, Etihad Cargo continues to focus on empowering partners with faster and more reliable ways to move goods.
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