Fujairah Airport achieves UAE milestone with its first drone cargo flight, showcasing safe, scalable logistics innovation in aviation.
FUJAIRAH: In a historic aviation first for the UAE, Fujairah International Airport (FJR) has successfully launched its inaugural drone cargo flight from a civilian airport to an offshore platform. This marks a transformative step in regional air logistics, with the initiative powered by strategic collaboration and cutting-edge technology.
The unmanned aircraft, operated by Lodd Autonomous, took off under the supervision of air traffic control and completed the drone cargo flight to an offshore platform in Fujairah. This ground-breaking mission was coordinated closely with the Fujairah Civil Aviation Authority and Fujairah Air Navigation Services (FANS), reflecting strong multi-agency cooperation.
Mohammed Abdullah Al Salami, Chairman of the Fujairah Civil Aviation Authority and Vice Chairman of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, called the event “a significant milestone for Fujairah International Airport within the aviation industry.” He highlighted the department’s focus on innovative, sustainable solutions in air freight.
Karam Jallal Al Baloushi, CEO of FANS, added that the successful drone cargo flight underscores not only technological innovation but also meticulous coordination and safety in a functioning civilian airport.
Rashid Al Manai, CEO of Lodd Autonomous, called the operation a “landmark moment” and stated that it proved unmanned cargo flights from civilian airports are safe, scalable, and efficient.
Executed in full compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and UAE GCAA guidelines, this drone cargo flight showcases the real-world viability of unmanned aerial logistics in active airspace.
Looking ahead, Fujairah authorities plan to expand drone cargo services, strengthen partnerships, and drive innovation in the UAE’s logistics sector, with the ultimate goal of making drone cargo flight operations part of mainstream air freight services.
