LODD, an Abu Dhabi-based company specialising in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered drone technology and autonomous aerial logistics, and Skyports Infrastructure have unveiled vertiport designs to be developed across three strategic locations. The project aims to enhance air mobility solutions, integrating new infrastructure into Abu Dhabi’s transportation network to accelerate cargo and passenger movement and improve logistical efficiency in the United Arab Emirate’s capital.
LODD and Skyports have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of vertiport infrastructure, which will connect key sites within Abu Dhabi, with potential for enabling connectivity between other emirates. The development of a vertiport network will enable the launch and scale-up of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) operations and autonomous aerial logistics.
“Abu Dhabi serves as a global model for air mobility, thanks to its progressive systems,” said Rashid Al Mannai, CEO, LODD. “These vertiports will lay the foundation for a future-ready air mobility network, supporting both commercial eVTOL passenger services and autonomous aerial logistics.”
Both parties provided insight into airspace evaluation, regulatory analysis, and feasibility studies for three key locations in Abu Dhabi: Al Bateen, Yas Island, and Khalifa Port. More than 34 stakeholders were involved, and 14 potential sites were assessed, culminating in a detailed feasibility study submitted to the Abu Dhabi Government.
“The unveiling of these designs and signing of an MoU highlights the progress being made to define and develop Abu Dhabi’s AAM infrastructure network,” said Duncan Walker, CEO, Skyports. “As our vertiport concept designs show, cargo is just as important to Abu Dhabi’s AAM future as passenger operations. The development of a comprehensive passenger and cargo network will enable us to bring wide-ranging benefits to the emirate, for both people and businesses.”
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