dnata has transitioned its fleet of non-electric airside and ground support vehicles to operate on biodiesel in Dubai, marking a “major milestone” in its “sustainability journey” in the UAE.
All non-electric vehicles operated by the ground services provider at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) are now powered “exclusively” by a biodiesel blend.
The move, taken in partnership with Dubai Airports and the Emirates National Oil Company Group (ENOC), is projected to cut CO₂ equivalent emissions by more than 3,500 tonnes annually over the lifecycle of the fuel consumed by dnata’s fleet.
According to dnata, this is equivalent to more than 21 million kilometres driven by an average diesel-powered car.
The initiative has been gradually rolled out across the company’s extensive ground handling and cargo operations at DXB and DWC.
It involves a total of 2,500 vehicles, which support the safe and timely operations of more than 220,000 flights annually.
Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “Our latest initiative to switch all our non-electric airside vehicles to biodiesel in Dubai is a big step forward in our decarbonisation journey.
“It demonstrates our dedication to cutting emissions, a core part of our environmental strategy, while maintaining the highest level of quality and safety across our operations.
dnata CEO Steve Allen (centre) has welcomed the move to improve the company’s carbon footprint in the UAE
“This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the strong collaboration with Dubai Airports and ENOC, who share our commitment to contributing to the UAE government’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative.”
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, added: “Sustainability in aviation requires everyone to pitch in, and as the airport operator, we’re committed to driving change.
“Our partnership with dnata and ENOC to introduce biodiesel highlights how collaboration can lead to real progress.
“While sector-wide solutions are crucial, airports must also score quick wins on the ground.”
He added: “This shift will benefit all operators of vehicles and equipment operating airside by replacing traditional diesel with a cleaner alternative.”
As part of dnata’s initiative to reduce the carbon footprint of its airside and ground support vehicles in Dubai, ENOC Group has provided dedicated biofuel trucks and fuel stations to support the company’s transition.
