Futuristic Logistics: Aramex and Odys Aviation Set to Transform Cargo Operations in the Middle East
Odys Aviation and Aramex have announced partnership aimed at developing cargo operations in the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and the broader Middle East region. Odys Aviation, renowned for its hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, will collaborate with Aramex, a provider of express delivery and logistics services.
The state-of-the-art aircraft designed by Odys Aviation are versatile, offering all-electric propulsion for distances up to 320 kilometres and a hybrid-electric range exceeding 1,200 kilometres. These innovations have the potential to reduce carbon emissions on pan-GCC flights by an impressive 76 percent, providing a zero-carbon air cargo alternative for routes in the UAE, Oman, and beyond.
Under the partnership, Odys Aviation and Aramex will focus on the development of autonomous logistics programs, introducing cargo flights utilising Odys Aviation's cargo aircraft and Aramex's fleet management capabilities. The initial pilot programs will employ Odys Aviation's Laila aircraft, featuring a 22-foot wingspan and a payload capacity of 130 lbs. Subsequent phases will involve the integration of Odys Aviation's Alta aircraft, a full-scale vehicle capable of carrying payloads up to one tonne.
Aramex will support pilot training and a test flight program, demonstrating cargo movement between its regional locations. The collaboration aims to tailor Concept of Operations to adapt Odys Aviation's aircraft to specific local environments. Pending approval from regional regulatory bodies, the two companies plan to launch commercial operations, expanding beyond test programs to demonstrable routes and new markets within the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The overarching goal of this partnership is to establish a new GCC network and operating model utilising VTOL aircraft for Aramex, thereby enhancing the company's regional presence and offering more sustainable options for shipping cargo regionally or internationally via the UAE.
Notably, the collaboration aligns with Odys Aviation's recent significant presence at COP28, where the company emphasised its commitment to advancing the agenda around the decarbonisation of the aviation industry. Additionally, the agreement contributes to the UAE-U.S. Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy, launched in November 2022, aiming to catalyse US$100 billion in clean energy and decarbonisation projects by 2035.
James Dorris, Co-Founder and CEO at Odys Aviation, expressed gratitude for the partnership, emphasising the commitment to launching a new generation of VTOL aircraft. Alaa Saoudi, Chief Operating Officer - Express at Aramex, highlighted the collaboration's alignment with Aramex's commitment to delivering innovative and environmentally friendly logistics solutions.
Angad Singh, Global Director - Innovation at Aramex, noted that VTOL cargo aircraft would provide an operational edge for both B2B movements and B2C middle mile logistics. Odys Aviation plans to unveil a full-scale prototype in 2024, aiming to integrate the aircraft into Aramex's cargo fleet by early 2028. This collaboration symbolises a new era in logistics, prioritising sustainability and innovation in the aviation industry.
