Aviation News – Abu Dhabi’s LODD Autonomous has completed the inaugural test flight of Hili, a hybrid heavy-lift cargo aircraft fully designed and manufactured in the UAE, marking a major milestone in the nation’s autonomous aviation ambitions.
The test flight took place on 13 November 2025 at the Emirates Falcons Aviation facility in Al Ain Region, witnessed by H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The aircraft’s development forms a central part of Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, highlighting the emirate’s push to expand advanced air mobility and homegrown aerospace capabilities.
The Hili platform uses a hybrid propulsion system to deliver long-range, heavy-payload performance with reduced emissions. Designed for autonomous cargo operations, it aims to increase efficiency for logistics, humanitarian support and industrial transport across challenging environments.
Looking ahead, the company plans additional test campaigns to refine performance, expand operational capability and prepare for future commercial deployment. The project is expected to support local industry growth, boost advanced manufacturing and attract international interest.
The milestone confirms Abu Dhabi’s commitment to developing world-class autonomous technologies and positions Hili as a potential game-changer in regional and global cargo operations. Further evaluations will determine how soon the aircraft can enter service.