Skyports, LODD unveil vertiport concept designs for Abu Dhabi AAM network
Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports) and LODD, a UAE-based AI-powered drone technology and autonomous aerial logistics specialist, have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop vertiport infrastructure in Abu Dhabi.
Under the agreement, the companies will establish a vertiport network to integrate electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) operations and autonomous aerial logistics into Abu Dhabi’s transportation ecosystem.
As part of the initiative, both companies unveiled vertiport designs for three strategic locations in Abu Dhabi—Al Bateen, Yas Island, and Khalifa Port—with potential future expansion to other Emirates.
A step forward in air mobility
Rashid Al Mannai, CEO of LODD, highlighted the significance of integrating vertiports into Abu Dhabi’s transportation network.
“Abu Dhabi serves as a global model for air mobility, thanks to its progressive systems,” he said.
“These vertiports will lay the foundation for a future-ready air mobility network, supporting both commercial eVTOL passenger services and autonomous aerial logistics.”
On his part, Duncan Walker, CEO of Skyports, underscored the project’s impact on both cargo and passenger transport.
“The unveiling of these designs and signing of an MoU highlight the progress being made to define and develop Abu Dhabi’s AAM infrastructure network,” he stated.
“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.”
According to the companies, the vertiport designs were developed following extensive feasibility studies, regulatory analysis, and airspace evaluations.
More than 34 stakeholders participated in the process, with 14 potential sites assessed before finalising the three key locations.
Furthremore, earlier this year, Skyports received technical design approval from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for the first commercial vertiport in the UAE.