Emirates Sky Cargo signs a memorandum of understanding with Load Autonomous Company

Emirates SkyCargo and Load Autonomous signed a memorandum of understanding during the Dubai Airshow 2025, to explore ways to develop and deploy new generation solutions in the field of air cargo.

The agreement was signed by Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President of Cargo at Emirates Airlines, and Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of Load Autonomous Company.

Under the memorandum of understanding, Emirates SkyCargo and Load Autonomous Company will cooperate to discuss the feasibility of using aircraft capable of vertical take-off and landing across the carrier’s extensive global network, through feasibility studies, regulatory coordination, and the implementation of direct operational bids.

Benefiting from its experience spanning nearly four decades in global cargo transportation, Emirates SkyCargo will participate in the pilot operations of the Load Autonomous Company until the end of 2027, to provide technical insights that contribute to design and development, in preparation for the commercial deployment of these technologies in regional and international markets.

This agreement comes after the great success of the first test flights of the “Heli” aircraft from Load Autonomous Company last week, the hybrid, high-payload, fully autonomous cargo aircraft, which was developed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi.

“Heli” is distinguished by its ability to take off and land autonomously, with a payload of up to 250 kilograms, and a range of up to 700 kilometers. As Emirates SkyCargo continues to invest in future technologies for more efficient and smooth cargo operations, the aircraft is being studied to be integrated into the carrier’s ground vehicle fleet to support its operations through its two operating centers in Dubai.

Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President of Cargo at Emirates Airlines, said: “Our partnership with Load Autonomous reflects our commitment to adopting practical innovations that address our customers’ challenges in the movement of goods. Emerging technologies will form the basis of the next generation of logistics services, and Emirates SkyCargo will be at the forefront of this transformation, drawing on its extensive experience to develop solutions that make a tangible impact. We look forward to cooperating with Load Autonomous to explore ways to develop and apply this technology manufactured in the UAE.”

Rashid Mattar Al Mannai, CEO of Load Autonomous, said: “The UAE’s vision is based on harnessing innovation to drive development in various aspects of life. Our cooperation with Emirates Air Cargo combines the advanced technologies developed by Load Autonomous with our country’s firm commitment to building a safe, scalable and sustainable logistics system. Through this partnership, we will accelerate the adoption of drone-based solutions that allow greater reach, reduce delivery times, and enhance the position of The UAE is recognized as a global logistics hub, adhering to the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance.”

Developing the logistics system is a major focus of the Emirates Air Cargo Strategy. Thanks to its world-leading standards, the carrier is a reliable partner that connects the world through a network of more than 150 destinations and a full fleet of wide-body aircraft exceeding 260 passenger and cargo aircraft.

As part of its innovative approach, the carrier recently launched “Emirates Express Shipping Services,” a door-to-door delivery service that redefines the standards of cross-border e-commerce by integrating its logistical expertise with the passenger flight network.

Load Autonomous Company, which is headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has created a qualitative transformation in the civil logistics services sector by developing unmanned and autonomous aerial vehicles, supported by advanced software based on artificial intelligence, which contributes to simplifying operations, reducing costs, enhancing sustainability, and accelerating delivery.

With the support of the Advanced Technology Research Council, the development of the Helly aircraft and the possibility of its integration into the operations of the largest international carrier in the world embodies the UAE’s commitment to investing in the national technology system, from strategy development and research to manufacturing and application.