The UAE plans to test a cargo drone on a cross-border route next year. The test will support wider efforts to develop autonomous aviation and logistics. Abu Dhabi-based LODD Autonomous will conduct the flight during its ongoing aircraft trials. The company expects the test to mark an important step for regional cargo transport.
LODD Autonomous is developing the Hili aircraft for middle-mile logistics operations. The aircraft uses a hybrid electric vertical take-off and landing design. It can transport cargo without requiring a traditional runway for takeoff or landing. Furthermore, the aircraft targets routes that could improve connections between logistics hubs.
The company has not revealed which neighboring country will host the planned flight. However, the test will involve a route connecting the UAE with another regional market. LODD Autonomous continues flight testing in Al Ain as development progresses. Meanwhile, the company is preparing its final certification application for aviation authorities.
The Hili aircraft can carry payloads weighing up to 250 kilograms. It can also travel approximately 700 kilometers on a single mission. Therefore, the aircraft could support longer middle-mile routes between logistics facilities. The company designed the system to serve commercial cargo transportation needs.
LODD Autonomous expects regulatory approval to remain an important part of its development program. Certification would allow the company to move closer toward commercial operations. In addition, successful testing could support future international routes. The company will need to meet aviation requirements before launching regular services.
The UAE has continued developing infrastructure for autonomous aircraft and advanced air mobility. Authorities have also supported the development of commercial facilities for electric aircraft. As a result, companies can test new aviation technologies within an expanding ecosystem. This environment could help accelerate new logistics applications.
LODD Autonomous received more than 330 orders for its Hili aircraft. Local and international companies account for the orders, according to the company. Overseas customers represent more than 70 percent of the total order book. Consequently, international demand forms a major part of the company’s growth plans.
The company unveiled the Hili aircraft in September 2025. It later continued development and flight testing from its Abu Dhabi base. The company focuses on autonomous systems for middle-mile cargo logistics. Moreover, its technology targets commercial transportation needs across different markets.
The planned cross-border flight could provide useful data for future operations. It could also help the company assess longer routes and international logistics requirements. Meanwhile, additional flight testing should help refine the aircraft before certification. The results could influence the company’s plans for wider commercial deployment.
The Cargo Drone project also reflects growing interest in autonomous freight transportation. Businesses increasingly seek faster and more flexible options for moving goods. Electric and hybrid aircraft could eventually complement existing road and air networks. However, operators still need to address certification, safety, and operational requirements.
For the UAE, the project adds another development to its growing advanced aviation sector. Cross-border testing could also strengthen regional cooperation in autonomous logistics. Furthermore, commercial cargo flights could create new opportunities for supply chain operators. The company now faces the next stage of testing and regulatory preparation.
The Cargo Drone could eventually serve routes connecting major logistics centers across the region. Its 700-kilometer range provides flexibility for several potential applications. Its 250-kilogram payload also targets commercial shipments rather than passenger travel. As testing continues, the company will assess how the aircraft performs under operational conditions.
The Cargo Drone program highlights the UAE’s broader interest in next-generation transportation. LODD Autonomous aims to move from testing toward certification and commercial deployment. The planned international flight could become an important milestone in that process. Further regulatory steps will determine when the aircraft can begin wider operations.
