The Ministry of Economy has made an announcement regarding Odys Aviation, a US-based company specializing in the development of hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft for regional distances and short-haul air taxi routes. Odys Aviation has joined the NextGen FDI programme initiated by the Ministry of Economy, which aims to support innovative businesses in promising sectors by providing them with the necessary market-entry resources to successfully establish and expand their operations in the UAE.
Odys Aviation’s aircraft are designed to accommodate passengers, cargo, and emergency services, offering an all-electric propulsion range of 320 kilometers and a hybrid-electric range exceeding 1,200 kilometers. These aircraft have the potential to reduce carbon emissions in pan-GCC air travel by up to 76% and provide a carbon-neutral travel alternative for all journeys within the UAE. The company, based in California, plans to introduce a full-scale prototype by 2025, with the aircraft expected to enter into service by 2027.
By joining the NextGen FDI programme, Odys Aviation aims to establish a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, including a high-volume assembly and maintenance facility. This strategic move is projected to create over 2,000 direct and indirect job opportunities in the UAE and facilitate the export of the first aircraft manufactured under the “Made in the UAE” certification.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, expressed his thoughts on the partnership, stating, “The new partnership with Odys Aviation marks another important milestone in the UAE’s journey to create a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation. We see significant opportunities for Odys aircraft in various civilian, cargo, and civil defense activities across the UAE, and we are eager to develop a sustainable, low-carbon aviation sector encompassing clean energy air travel, advanced manufacturing, and research and development capabilities. Our NextGen FDI programme is playing a pivotal role in transforming the UAE’s advanced manufacturing and industrial sector, establishing new centers of excellence centered around groundbreaking ideas.”
James Dorris, Co-Founder and CEO at Odys Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm for joining the programme, stating, “We are proud to partner with the UAE Ministry of Economy. The UAE presents the ideal market for Odys to establish its presence, and we are excited to collaborate with UAE entities to develop an advanced air mobility ecosystem. By bringing Odys to the UAE, we aim to leverage the existing robust aviation sector and tap into local supply chain opportunities. The year 2023 has been dedicated to sustainability here, and Odys is honored to contribute to the transformation of the energy ecosystem. Our aircraft will create new opportunities for domestic air connectivity within the UAE and regional travel between key GCC cities, significantly reducing travel times compared to conventional options while remaining environmentally friendly.”
Odys Aviation’s aircraft are meticulously designed to cater to the needs of passengers, cargo, and emergency services. With an impressive all-electric propulsion range of 320 kilometers and a hybrid-electric range exceeding 1,200 kilometers, these aircraft have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with pan-GCC air travel, estimated to be up to 76%. Furthermore, they offer a sustainable and zero-carbon alternative for all types of travel within the UAE. The California-based start-up has set its sights on unveiling a full-scale prototype by 2025, with plans for the aircraft to be fully operational and in service by 2027.
By participating in the NextGen FDI programme, Odys Aviation aims to establish a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, which will include a high-volume assembly and maintenance plant. This strategic move is projected to generate more than 2,000 direct and indirect job opportunities in the UAE. Additionally, it will pave the way for the export of the first aircraft manufactured under the prestigious “Made in the UAE” certification, solidifying the country’s position as a hub for advanced aviation technology.
This expansion to the UAE builds upon the significant interest that Odys Aviation has garnered for its aircraft. Despite operating in relative stealth mode, the start-up has already received pre-orders for more than 1,200 aircraft from operators and airlines worldwide.
