Dubai – Mubasher: Odys Aviation, a sustainable aviation firm building hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, has partnered with Aramex to develop cargo operations in the UAE and Oman.
The two parties will create autonomous logistics programmes to introduce cargo flights leveraging both Odys Aviation’s cargo aircraft and Aramex’s fleet management capabilities, according to a press release.
Odys Aviation's aircraft is designed in multiple configurations for cargo to deliver all-electric propulsion for distances up to 320 kilometres. It will also offer a hybrid-electric range of more than 1,200 kilometres.
In this regard, flights operated through these aircraft will manage to lower carbon emissions on pan-GCC flights by up to 76% and provide a zero-carbon air cargo alternative for routes across the UAE, Oman, and beyond.
The collaboration aims to generate a new GCC network and operating model using vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft for Aramex, which will enhance the company’s regional presence and provide more sustainable options for customers and partners.
James Dorris, Co-Founder and CEO at Odys Aviation, commented: “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.”
“Building on our announcement earlier in 2023 that Odys has partnered with the UAE Ministry of Economy's NextGen FDI programme, 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 UAE, Oman, and other Gulf countries,” Dorris added.
Alaa Saoudi, Chief Operating Officer of Express at Aramex, said: “This collaboration aligns perfectly with Aramex’s commitment to delivering innovative and environmentally friendly logistics solutions, along with our net-zero commitments.”
“This partnership will open new horizons for efficient and eco-friendly logistics, as it is expected to cut up to 76% of carbon emissions on pan-GCC flights,” Saoudi pointed out.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Odys Aviation plans to launch a full-scale prototype in 2024 and make the aircraft available to enter Aramex’s cargo fleet by early 2028.
In the first nine months (9M) of 2023, Aramex witnessed lower net profits at AED 51.36 million, compared to AED 132.29 million in 9M-22.
