First UAE-made hybrid cargo aircraft ‘Hili’ launched

Sheikh Zayed Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, witnessed the launch of the first flight of the “Hili” cargo aircraft on Thursday.

Designed, developed and manufactured entirely in the UAE by Emirati hands, the hybrid autonomous cargo aircraft is the first civilian aircraft of its kind and is dedicated to medium-range heavy cargo operations. This represents a national achievement and a global innovation in the sustainable air transport sector.

Rashid Mattar Al Mannai, CEO of the UAE-based company LODD Autonomous, confirmed that the "Hili" aircraft represents a new generation of independent air cargo systems. It is distinguished by its ability to take off and land vertically using electric power, then switch to horizontal flight using an internal combustion engine. This makes it highly efficient and capable of carrying out real commercial operations.

Al Manaei stated that the aircraft can carry 250 kilogrammes and fly up to 300 kilometres, connecting transportation hubs and logistics centres directly. This eliminates the need for airports or complex infrastructure, providing a practical solution for speeding up air transport operations between ports and regional warehouses.

He added that "Hili" is equipped with eight electric motors for vertical take-off and landing, as well as an internal combustion engine for horizontal flight. It has two dedicated electronics compartments: one at the front for controlling the flight systems, and one at the rear for aircraft services. There is also a large cargo hold with a flat floor, which is designed for the rapid and easy loading of standard logistics pallets.

Al Manaei pointed out that the aircraft is equipped with ground wheels, enabling it to move and manoeuvre autonomously on the ground, eliminating the need for towing or ground support equipment.

This enhances its operational efficiency and reduces the need for support crews.

He emphasised that the aircraft is being developed within an integrated national system for advanced technologies in Abu Dhabi.

This is being carried out in cooperation with the General Civil Aviation Authority, the SAVI complex and a number of air infrastructure developers and commercial operators. This ensures organisational and operational integration from the project's early stages.

Al Manaei explained that “Hili” represents a key pillar in the company’s vision to reduce emissions and achieve carbon neutrality; as the hybrid propulsion system provides viable range and payload while reducing fuel consumption, while the design supports future upgrades using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or advanced batteries, in addition to employing artificial intelligence in fleet management, predictive maintenance and smart flight scheduling.

Al Manaei explained that the aircraft was named “Hili” after the Hili area in Al Ain, a Unesco World Heritage Site, emphasising that this name symbolises the connection between the UAE's rich heritage and its commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable air transport solutions.