LODD Autonomous Successfully Conducts First Test Flight Of Hili Hybrid Cargo Aircraft In Al Ain Region
H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan witnessed the inaugural test flight of Hili, a hybrid cargo aircraft, at Emirates Falcons Aviation in Al Ain. This event was part of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week. The aircraft, designed and built entirely in Abu Dhabi, can carry up to 250 kilograms over nearly 700 kilometres using a hybrid propulsion system that combines electric and internal combustion technologies.
The successful test flight of Hili highlights Abu Dhabi's leadership in autonomous aviation and logistics systems. It embodies the emirate's vision to transform innovation into practical solutions for economic and technological growth. H.H. Sheikh Zayed praised the progress in developing intelligent systems, especially in air mobility, supported by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council.
Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai, Advisor to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs, emphasised the milestone's significance in advancing air mobility and logistics. He described it as a testament to Abu Dhabi’s vision and investment in creating globally competitive innovations locally. This achievement reflects the emirate's commitment to fostering national talent and reinforcing its position as a hub for sustainable air mobility.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous, expressed alignment with the UAE’s vision for advanced air mobility. He appreciated the leadership's support for aviation and autonomous systems, which has fostered an innovative environment. "We take great pride in witnessing the success of Hili’s first test flight," he said, highlighting it as a reflection of the UAE’s growing role as a global centre for smart air mobility.
The development of Hili involved an intensive engineering programme focused on safety and quality. This effort underscores Abu Dhabi’s capability to turn visions into real-world solutions efficiently. The project is a result of strategic collaboration that demonstrates international confidence in the UAE’s innovation ecosystem.
The first test flight was attended by senior representatives from government entities and private sector companies involved in air mobility and autonomous systems. It marks a significant engineering achievement that showcases Abu Dhabi’s growing capabilities in designing advanced aviation systems.
This accomplishment also highlights Abu Dhabi's approach to fostering public-private partnerships that accelerate technology development towards sustainable autonomous air mobility solutions.
Through these achievements, LODD Autonomous solidifies its position as one of the UAE’s leading entities in advanced air mobility. The company supports the nation’s vision to be a global destination for autonomous systems and future aviation technologies.
With inputs from WAM
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