Staff Correspondent
In an inspiring display of national achievement and technological excellence, LODD Autonomous has proudly conducted the first test flight of its groundbreaking Hili aircraft in the Al Ain Region—an event graced by the presence of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This historic moment, part of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, marked not only the successful ascent of an aircraft but also the elevation of the UAE’s leadership in advanced air mobility and autonomous systems.
The Hili aircraft, conceived, designed, and manufactured entirely in Abu Dhabi, stands as a remarkable symbol of national ingenuity. Engineered to carry payloads of up to 250 kilograms across distances reaching 700 kilometres, Hili unites electrical and combustion technologies in a sophisticated hybrid propulsion system. Its modular design prioritizes both energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, aligning seamlessly with the UAE’s broader commitment to sustainability and innovation.
His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised that the successful test flight of Hili is more than an engineering triumph—it is a statement of Abu Dhabi’s bold vision to convert innovation into tangible, world-leading solutions. This accomplishment, he noted, reinforces the emirate’s role as a pioneer in developing smart and autonomous transport systems, while underscoring the nation’s ongoing mission to empower local talent and foster homegrown technology.
That theme of empowerment resonated throughout the ceremony. His Excellency Faisal Abdulaziz Al Bannai spoke passionately about the importance of this achievement, describing it as a decisive moment in advancing air mobility and logistics innovation. As he highlighted, Hili’s success represents the fruit of Abu Dhabi’s sustained investment in research and development. This effort ensures cutting-edge technologies are not only adopted locally but also conceived and produced within the UAE.
Rashid Al Manai, Chief Executive Officer of LODD Autonomous, expressed immense pride in his team’s dedication and vision. He described the project as a reflection of the UAE’s firm commitment to becoming a global hub for future aviation, autonomy, and sustainable technology. From concept to completion, Hili embodies what is possible when a nation’s leadership cultivates an environment that values invention, initiative, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The successful flight test, witnessed by a distinguished audience of leaders from government, research, and industry, demonstrated Abu Dhabi’s rising prowess in the design, testing, and deployment of advanced aviation systems. Behind the technical precision of Hili’s engineering lies a deeper story—one of ambition, national pride, and the determination to carve a unique path in the world of autonomous mobility.
This remarkable achievement stands as a powerful testament to the UAE’s vibrant innovation ecosystem and Abu Dhabi’s visionary commitment to shaping the future of mobility. Through strong global collaboration and bold public-private partnerships, LODD is driving the evolution of autonomous air transport, setting new benchmarks in sustainability and efficiency. With its groundbreaking Hili UAV and forward-looking approach, LODD is not just redefining cargo logistics—it’s propelling the world toward a smarter, greener, and more connected future in air mobility.
As the aircraft soared over the Al Ain horizon, it symbolized more than a remarkable debut—it heralded the dawn of a new aviation era for the UAE. With Hili, Abu Dhabi has not only proven its capability to build sophisticated hybrid aircraft. Still, he has also reaffirmed its role as a global incubator for sustainable technologies that will shape the future of logistics, commerce, and connectivity. The skies above the Emirates have long reflected aspiration; now, thanks to innovation like Hili, they also reflect achievement.
