Oman tests drone-based medical cargo

Oman has launched the second phase of its Sky Bridge initiative, using a cargo drone to carry up to 150kg of medical supplies and equipment from Salalah to the Al Halaniyat Islands. The Sahm drone can fly at more than 120km/h and at altitudes of up to 2,000 metres, providing a new option for moving essential supplies to hard-to-reach areas.

The trial could help Oman assess how unmanned aircraft can support last-mile logistics, particularly where distance, terrain and limited transport links make conventional deliveries difficult. For the logistics sector, cargo drones could provide faster access to remote communities and support medical and emergency supply movements without relying solely on road or conventional air transport.

The mission is being carried out by the Ibn Firnas Centre for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, with an Omani team managing planning, loading, flight operations, monitoring and safety. The team has received training in cargo handling, navigation and emergency procedures.

The latest trial follows the first Sky Bridge phase, which moved 100kg of medicines and medical supplies nearly 100km to Al Jabal Al Akdhar. The new operation will provide further data on the use of drones for cargo transport and their possible expansion across Oman.