Emirates SkyCargo has successfully transported Altair-1, the first commercial AI-enabled earth observation satellite developed in the UAE. This satellite, part of Orbitworks’ Altair constellation, represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s ambitions to establish itself as a leader in space exploration and technology. The satellite was flown from Dubai World Central (DWC) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on an Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777 freighter, ahead of its planned launch in October 2026.
The Altair constellation, engineered and constructed in the UAE by Orbitworks, consists of multi-sensor satellites equipped with optical, infrared, thermal, and radio frequency sensing capabilities, along with onboard artificial intelligence processing. This advanced satellite system is designed to deliver ready-to-analyze intelligence for various applications, including environmental monitoring, disaster management, land and coastal usage studies, maritime awareness, and resource assessment. Altair-1 is the inaugural satellite in a series of ten that will comprise the Altair constellation.
The successful transport of Altair-1 underscores Emirates SkyCargo’s proficiency in handling specialized and sensitive cargo within its Aerospace and Engineering division. A dedicated team from Emirates SkyCargo oversaw the satellite’s transportation, ensuring stringent safety and environmental protocols were adhered to while maintaining the delivery schedule.
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Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President at Emirates SkyCargo, expressed pride in supporting Orbitworks during this pivotal moment, contributing to the UAE’s reputation as a center for innovation and advanced logistics. He emphasized that transporting sensitive and technologically sophisticated cargo demands precision and expertise, areas where Emirates SkyCargo excels due to its extensive experience in the field. The transport of Altair-1 from the UAE to the United States highlights the importance of specialized air cargo solutions within the aerospace sector.
Schahan Sediqi, General Manager of Orbitworks, reflected on the significance of this achievement, noting that Altair-1 is the result of dedication from a remarkable team. He acknowledged the vital role played by local partners such as Emirates SkyCargo in ensuring the safe transit of the satellite to Los Angeles. Sediqi expressed excitement for the upcoming launch in October, where Altair-1 will commence its mission in space.
Emirates SkyCargo has a robust track record of transporting satellites and sensitive aerospace equipment globally. Recently, it facilitated the movement of Arab Satellite 813 from Dubai to its launch site in Shanghai, China. In 2018, the cargo carrier made headlines by transporting Khalifasat, the first satellite designed and built by Emirati engineers, from Dubai to South Korea. The division dedicated to aerospace and engineering logistics is one of the fastest-growing segments within Emirates SkyCargo’s specialized offerings, with over 6,000 tonnes of aerospace and advanced engineering cargo transported worldwide in 2026.
In line with its ambitious growth strategy, Emirates SkyCargo is expanding its fleet and network. Since March 2026, the cargo airline has acquired six new Boeing 777-F freighters and one converted Boeing 777-300ERSF from its passenger fleet. Additionally, it expects to receive four more Boeing 777-F freighters and another converted aircraft later this year. This expanded fleet enhances Emirates SkyCargo’s global freighter network, which now includes over 60 destinations, providing essential cargo capacity along with increased flexibility to navigate international supply chains.
