Flying Whales, a French firm specializing in rigid airship technology for heavy-load transport, is planning to establish a manufacturing facility in the UAE.
This strategic move is expected to create approximately 1,000 job opportunities in collaboration with its partners.
Flying Whales in UAE
The airships, named Whales, are entirely electric and boast zero emissions. Certification by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) is underway. These airships, operating similarly to helicopters, have the capability to transport heavy loads, including mobile hospitals, to remote locations.
Manufacturing Facility in Abu Dhabi:
Sébastien Bougon, Chairman and CEO of Flying Whales, expressed the company's desire to set up a final assembly line in Abu Dhabi. This facility aims to produce airships for regions spanning from East Africa to the Middle East and India. Discussions have begun, and if the facility is established, production is anticipated to commence in 2027, generating 300 direct jobs. In addition, the consortium companies involved will also contribute to job creation, totaling around 1,000 positions.
LCA60T, Revolutionary Airship:
The airship, named LCA60T, is designed in the shape of a whale and can carry wind blades, high-voltage towers, industrial parts, hospitals, and more. With a 200-metre length, 50-metre diametre, and a 96-metre-long cargo bay, it can load and unload up to 60 tonnes of heavy or bulky loads in hovering flight, marking a historic milestone.
Global Presence:
Quebec (Canada), Nouvelle Aquitaine (France), Abu Dhabi (UAE), and the State of Victoria (Australia) are the four potential global locations for Flying Whales' final assembly lines. Different regions will be serviced by each facility. Establishing units in each place highlights the worldwide influence of the company's activities, and it is supported by a consortium of 50 top aeronautic partners.
Cost-Efficient and Environmentally Friendly:
Bougon claims that this airship type costs just a fraction of what vehicles do and twenty times less than aircraft and helicopters. Loading and unloading are made possible because of the revolutionary design, which eliminates the need to land.
French innovation in decarbonising transport is showcased at COP28 at Expo City Dubai by Flying Whales.
Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion:
Working closely with regulatory authorities in the US and Europe, Flying Whales ensures the safety of its airships. The company plans to serve 30 bases in the UAE, deploying airships to various destinations. Emirates, a strong partner, will play a crucial role in managing transportation means in India, Africa, and Turkey, strengthening its influence in the region.
Exclusive production in the Emirates:
The establishment of a facility in the Emirates would lead to an exclusive agreement, limiting production and operations to the Emirates with no plans for additional factories in neighbouring Gulf countries or India. This aligns with the company's vision for strategic partnerships and regional dominance.
