French firm Flying Whales, specializing in rigid airship technology for heavy-load transport, announces plans to establish a manufacturing facility in the UAE, aiming to generate around 1,000 job opportunities in collaboration with partners. The airship, named LCA60T, operates entirely on electricity, boasting zero emissions and capable of carrying heavy loads to remote locations.
READ:UAE Private Sector Workers to Enjoy Paid National Day Holidays, Three-Day Break to Ring in 2024
Key Points:
- Assembly Line in Abu Dhabi: Flying Whales aims to set up a final assembly line in Abu Dhabi, producing airships for the regions from East Africa to the Middle East to India. Discussions have begun, with production scheduled to commence in 2027, creating approximately 300 direct jobs. Consortium companies will also establish facilities, resulting in a total of around 1,000 jobs.
- Environmentally Friendly: The airship, resembling a whale in design, can transport wind blades, high voltage towers, industrial parts, and even mobile hospitals. Operating as an electric helicopter, it can fly a few hundred to a few thousand kilometers and load and unload up to 60 tonnes of heavy or bulky loads in hovering flight, leaving no footprint on the ground.
- Global Presence: Flying Whales plans to have four final assembly lines globally, including Quebec (Canada), Nouvelle Aquitaine (France), Abu Dhabi (UAE), and the State of Victoria (Australia). Each facility will serve its respective region. The company, supported by a consortium of 50 aeronautic partners, aims to have both Flying Whales Industry and Flying Whales Services units in each location.
- Cost Efficiency: The new transport model is touted to be 20 times less expensive than helicopters and planes, with costs slightly more than trucks. The company emphasizes the minimal impact on the ground during loading and unloading.
- Strategic Deployment: Flying Whales plans to serve 30 bases from the UAE, deploying airships to destinations across the region. With Emirates as a strong partner, the company aims to increase its influence in India, Africa, and Turkey.
READ:Navigating Dubai’s Public Transport: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Nol Card for You
The move aligns with efforts to innovate in the field of decarbonizing transport and is showcased at COP28 in Expo City Dubai, representing French innovation in the industry. The initiative reflects a collaborative effort between France, Canada, Australia, and the UAE to establish exclusive production and operations in the Emirates.
