Laila UAV Set to Become Cargo Delivery Drone with Aramex Assistance

Odys Aviation, would-be AAM and eVTOL manufacturer, has partnered with Middle Eastern logistics company Aramex to adapt Odys designs for the uncrewed cargo market. 

The new partnership will see the duo develop their wares for the Emirati, Omani, and wider regional market using Odys' range of aircraft sizes. The first models will leverage the firm's Laila aircraft, offering a 22-ft wingspan and 130-lb payload. Eventually, the partnership will adapt the Odys Alta, a "full scale vehicle with payload capabilities up to one ton". Aramex will contribute to the effort by providing pilot training and a test flight program which will demonstrate the movement of cargo between its various locales.

“Our partnership with Aramex signals a steadfast commitment to launching a new generation of VTOL aircraft and we are grateful to be working with the future-focused team at Aramex to bring our vision to reality," said James Dorris, CEO at Odys Aviation. "Building on our announcement earlier in 2023 that Odys has partnered with the UAE Ministry of Economy's NextGen FDI program, we are excited to be able to continue our momentum in the region and are looking forward to leading the development of a sustainable, low-carbon aviation sector in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and other Gulf Countries."

“We are delighted to partner with Odys Aviation, enabling us to jointly leverage our capabilities for cargo flights, encompassing both short-haul and long-range regional routes," said Alaa Saoudi, CEO of Aramex. "This collaboration aligns perfectly with Aramex’s commitment to delivering innovative and environmentally friendly logistics solutions, along with our net-zero commitments. By integrating Odys Aviation’s state-of-the-art aircraft into our operations, we aim to significantly enhance our cargo delivery capabilities across the UAE, Oman, and the wider region while substantially reducing our carbon footprint as well as supporting efforts of these countries in harnessing the potential of cleaner energy sources for aviation. This partnership will open new horizons for efficient and eco-friendly logistics, as it is expected to cut up to 76 percent of carbon emissions on pan-GCC flights. Not only will this collaboration transform our cargo operations, but it will also make a significant contribution to a cleaner and greener aviation industry while symbolizing a new era in logistics—one that prioritizes sustainability and innovation.”

FMI: www.odysaviation.com