Abu Dhabi-based logistics startup Lodd Autonomous has completed the first test flight of Hili, its flagship hybrid heavy-lift cargo drone.
The flight took place on Nov. 13 at a test flight facility in the Al Ain Region of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), company officials said.
Video from the event showed the aircraft lift off with its eight horizontal rotors and hover for several seconds before drifting backward and eventually settling back down on a paved surface.
The aircraft also has an aft propeller to provide thrust, but video from the event did not show the propeller spinning.
Lodd aims to achieve speeds of 136 miles per hour (220 km/h) with Hili, relying on a distributed propulsion system that includes eight lift motors and an internal combustion engine.
The aircraft is designed to recharge during flight and is optimized for multi-stop routes, quick turnarounds, and high-frequency missions, the company said.
“We take great pride in witnessing the success of Hili’s first test flight, representing the culmination of years of work and innovation,” noted Rashid Al Manai, CEO of Lodd Autonomous.
“This milestone is not merely a technical accomplishment but a reflection of the UAE’s growing position as a global centre for technology and innovation in smart and sustainable air mobility.”
Hili is named after a Bronze Age settlement in Al Ain, and is designed to transport payloads up to 550 pounds (250 kilograms), with a range of 435 miles (700 kilometers.
The aircraft closely resembles a passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL), but is designed to fly with no on-board pilot.
Its modular cargo bay fits two euro pallets and can be adjusted according to the mission.
Lodd is positioning the aircraft as an energy-efficient option for medical deliveries, medium-range cargo routes, and offshore logistics—with multiple backup systems for avionics, sensors, and communications.
Hili’s flight was part of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, a showcase of the UAE’s innovation ecosystem.
The company did not provide a timeline for Hili’s entry into service, but said it marked a major engineering and operational achievement. Hili is said to be the first aircraft of its kind fully engineered and manufactured in the UAE.
“We align with the UAE’s vision for advanced air mobility and autonomous systems to strengthen the nation’s position as a global hub for future technologies,” said Rashid Al Manai.
“We extend our deepest appreciation to the UAE’s leadership for their ongoing support of advanced aviation and autonomous systems. This forward-looking vision has created a thriving environment for innovation, enabling us to design, manufacture, and successfully test Hili, from Abu Dhabi to the world, showcasing the UAE’s capability to develop advanced technologies with global impact.”
