LODD Autonomous Hili

The Hili is an autonomous hybrid-electric cargo aircraft developed by the Abu Dhabi-based aerospace firm LODD Autonomous. As the first heavy-cargo unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to be entirely designed, manufactured, and tested in the United Arab Emirates, it is specifically engineered for middle-mile logistics—connecting major distribution centers with regional hubs without the need for traditional runways.

The aircraft features a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) configuration and a hybrid propulsion system that combines electric motors with an internal combustion engine to achieve a payload capacity of 250 kg (capable of carrying two Euro pallets) and a maximum range of 700 km.

Following its successful maiden flight in November 2025 at the Emirates Falcon Aviation facility in Al Ain, the Hili has become a central component of strategic partnerships with major carriers such as Etihad Cargo, Emirates SkyCargo, and DHL Express to trial automated point-to-point transfers.

The platform is currently undergoing a multi-year flight test campaign as it works toward General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) certification, which is anticipated around 2028.