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LODD Autonomous has launched a certification program for its hybrid cargo drone Hili with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This makes Hili the first autonomous cargo aircraft in the Arab world to enter the formal certification process for civil aviation. The aircraft, developed and constructed in Abu Dhabi, is designed as a hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) and can transport payloads of up to 250 kg over distances of up to 700 km.
Certification process and safety standards
The certification program includes the approval of the aircraft design, verification of regulatory compliance, and operational testing. This process is a crucial step towards the commercial use of the aircraft and ensures that the highest international standards for airworthiness and safety are met. Following successful certification, Hili is expected to enable more efficient and sustainable air freight operations in the fields of healthcare, energy, humanitarian aid, and industry.
The program is conducted under the supervision of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC), in collaboration with the GCAA and supported by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility). LODD Autonomous emphasizes that the certification of Hili as the first advanced autonomous civil aircraft developed, constructed, and certified in the UAE represents a central goal of the company.
Support from local stakeholders
The initiative is supported by key players in the aviation and mobility network in Abu Dhabi, including the Integrated Transport Centre, Abu Dhabi Mobility, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office. This involvement reflects the broader strategy of the emirate to promote testing, certification, and the commercial introduction of advanced aviation technologies.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of LODD, commented on the program, emphasizing that the launch of the certification program represents a significant advancement in the development of the aircraft. “Entering formal certification demonstrates the maturity of the Hili program and moves Hili closer to commercial operations,” said Al Manai.
Eng. Aqeel Al Zarooni, Deputy Director General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, emphasized that the start of certification demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to innovation while maintaining high aviation safety standards. He added that advanced aircraft programs like Hili are intended to support the safe integration of new technologies into the national aviation ecosystem.
