Aramex has completed test flights in Oman, bringing the idea of drones delivering products to your door one step closer, in collaboration with US-based drone technology company UVL Robotics.

The logistics company announced that it intends to try a multi-modal strategy that combines drones with other electric and autonomous vehicles for last-mile delivery.

The testing of drones is a part of Aramex’s Future Delivery Program that aims to use the newest last-mile delivery technologies to increase delivery effectiveness, raise customer happiness, and produce cost savings, the firm said in a statement.

To replace its fleet with emission-free electric and hydrogen fuel cell cars, the logistics provider is launching a multi-phase program with this test as its first phase. The pilot’s main objective was to test a fully autonomous drone’s ability to deliver packages in Muscat over a variety of terrains, distances, and weather situations.

“Through the successful drone delivery testing with UVL Robotics, we have proven that these automated delivery modes will enable us to further enhance the speed, accessibility, and reliability of package deliveries, especially to remote areas with hard-to-reach terrain. In addition, the program will support our sustainability ambitions to significantly cut our greenhouse gas emissions and reach carbon neutrality by 2030,” says Alaa Saoudi, chief operating officer of express at Aramex.

As a more environmentally friendly option for its fleet, Aramex has been testing and implementing electric vehicles since 2017.

“The autonomous drone technology provided by UVL Robotics could cut transit times by half in complex routes. This means we can now add more value for our customers and consignees as we can accelerate the delivery of packages across different sectors, including e-commerce, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals, amongst others,” said Angad Singh, global director of innovation at Aramex.