The UAE-based company “Load Autonomous” has formed a strategic partnership with “ST Engineering” to export the “Heli” drone, specifically designed for autonomous air cargo operations, to various Asian countries.
This agreement was signed during the participation of the “Load Autonomous” delegation at the Singapore International Airshow. The accord was formally executed by Rashid Matar Al Mannai, CEO of “Load Autonomous,” and Teong Soo Soon, Senior Vice President and Head of the Unmanned Air Systems Sector at ST Engineering.
UAE Manufacturing
Rashid Matar Al Mannai stated in an exclusive interview that the “Heli” drone, a product of UAE innovation, is set to revolutionize the air freight sector.
He explained that “Heli” is the first drone tailored for rapid air cargo operations, capable of vertical takeoff and landing. It can transport loads of up to 250 kilograms over distances of 700 kilometers, achieving speeds of up to 180 km/h.
“Load Autonomous” was established in May 2023, emerging as a leader in advanced air transport with the intention of significantly transforming the air freight sector in the region.
The firm concentrates on developing hybrid UAVs that operate with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, aiming to reshape the future of logistics by merging advanced technology with practical operational needs.
He noted that this agreement highlights the growing trust in “Load Autonomous” and the “Heli” as an advanced, scalable autonomous air cargo platform designed and developed in the UAE, enhancing the country’s innovative presence in the global advanced aviation sector.
Furthermore, the company is focused on tackling deficiencies in air freight systems, designing, and operating autonomous networks capable of enabling global cargo movement while offering air freight services without the reliance on expensive or complex ground infrastructure.
Cargo Market Insights
The CEO of “Load Autonomous” shared that the value of the global air cargo market is projected to be approximately $145 billion in 2024, with an annual growth rate of 5%. This indicates that the market is expected to reach $216 billion by 2035, revealing the promising future of the air cargo industry.
He continued, stating that the world is evolving rapidly with e-commerce growth at an unprecedented level, necessitating that air freight operations keep pace with these developments to ensure speedy delivery for customers.
He emphasized that “30% of global trade is transported via air freight, but there are challenges as expedited shipping remains inefficient and is overly dependent on airports, leading to significant time loss.” Companies are racing against time to ensure rapid transportation, as shipping goes through multiple stages from warehouses to airports before air transport.
“We take pride in the achievements accomplished in a record timeframe. Initially, we founded our company and assembled a team of approximately 50 specialists in advanced technology for logistical operations and UAV operation. We designed and manufactured the drone within this period. In my view, ‘Heli’ stands as the first drone, embodying the pride of the UAE.”
Rashid Al Mannai
“Heli” symbolizes the pride of Emirati manufacturing and is the first drone specialized in rapid air cargo operations.
The projected value of the global air cargo market is expected to reach $216 billion by 2035.