LODD Autonomous plans first civilian cross-border cargo drone flight in 2027

LODD Autonomous says it plans to conduct the world's first cross-border autonomous drone test flight for a civilian operation in 2027. CEO Rashid Matar Al Manai said the planned flight is part of the pilot testing phase of the company's HILI hybrid vertical take-off and landing aircraft and would depart from the UAE for a neighbouring country.

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Al Manai made the remarks to the Emirates News Agency on the sidelines of Investopia Bridge 2026 in Abu Dhabi. He said the flight would be carried out with local and international logistics service providers and is intended to help pave the way for delivery of the aircraft to customers inside and outside the UAE.

He said the company is continuing flight tests of HILI in Al Ain and is preparing to submit the final certification application to the relevant authorities in the coming period. Al Manai added that LODD Autonomous is already engaged in initial manufacturing ahead of the 2027 pilot-testing phase.

The company says it has received more than 330 orders for HILI aircraft from local and international companies, with more than 70% of those orders coming from overseas. Al Manai said the workforce includes more than 100 employees, 30% of them graduates of UAE universities.

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He also said the company was recognised among a list of 100 future companies.

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