MUSCAT: Oman is preparing to take flight into the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) with the arrival of Laila, a fully pilotless hybrid-electric VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft developed by California-based Odys Aviation.
The aircraft, recently completed at Odys’ Long Beach prototype facility, will undergo flight testing in the United States before arriving in Oman to take part in a novel Operational Launch Programme (OLP) - a global first for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
Backed by Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Ministry of Transport, Communications & Information Technology (MTCIT), the OLP will be one of the world’s most comprehensive evaluations of pilotless air mobility systems. It is designed to test Laila’s technical capabilities, supporting infrastructure, and real-world operational scenarios across Oman’s varied terrain.
Laila can cover up to 450 miles (approx 725 km) carrying 130 lbs (60 kg approx) of payload, and its vertical takeoff and landing ability allows operations without runways.
Oman’s landscapes—from deserts and mountains to coastal regions—make it an ideal proving ground for long-range pilotless operations.
Oman was selected for the OLP after a rigorous international search. Its progressive regulatory framework, supportive government, and commitment to sustainable aviation made it the natural choice.
“Oman’s policies, diverse terrain, and forward-looking approach to innovation make it an ideal proving ground for next-generation VTOL aircraft,” said Odys Aviation.
The programme also aligns closely with Oman Vision 2040, advancing goals in sustainability, digital transformation, and enhanced connectivity. By 2026, it will enable live pilotless flight tests, infrastructure evaluations, and customer trials across sectors including logistics, medical transport, and remote delivery.
Hybrid-electric aircraft like Laila reduce carbon emissions on regional routes and enhance connectivity between remote communities, ports, and industrial facilities. With its arrival, Oman is not only testing the limits of aviation technology but also showcasing the Sultanate’s readiness to embrace a future of pilotless flight.
