Dnata invests $1.7M in electric tugs for São Paulo airport

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Hana Al Awadhi Senior Vice President – Human Resources Business Partner | dnata

By Sky Industry News

Aug 1, 2024

dnata, a global air and travel services provider, has announced the addition of 24 electric tugs to its ground support equipment fleet at São Paulo International Airport. This move is part of a US$ 1.7 million investment aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

The new electric tugs are expected to enhance dnata Brazil's operations by facilitating baggage delivery between aircraft and the airport terminal. The company estimates that this upgrade will prevent over 420 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to more than 1.7 million kilometers driven by an average petrol-powered car.

Phil McGrane, CEO of dnata Brazil, stated: “We are proud to enhance our offering with a significant investment in our electric fleet. Our new vehicles will help us continue to deliver the highest level of service and safety while reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout our ramp operations.”

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McGrane added: “We will continue to work closely with our partners to further improve environmental efficiency in the Brazilian aviation industry. This includes strong collaboration with the infrastructure providers, whose investment is crucial for advancing the electrification of GSE fleets."

As one of Brazil’s leading ground services providers, dnata operates at 29 airports across the country, serving over 15 airlines with a team of 5,000 professionals. Annually, they handle more than 200,000 aircraft turnarounds.

dnata is committed to improving environmental efficiency globally through consistent investments in its modern fleet. The company aims to phase out diesel engines in favor of hybrid, electric or hydrogen options wherever possible.

Additionally, dnata focuses on minimizing fuel consumption by using Vehicle Tracking Management systems and conducting logistics mapping exercises. It also promotes responsible driver behavior through education and training programs.

Recently reported improvements show that dnata cut carbon intensity by over 8%, 22%, and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses respectively during the financial year 2023-24. These metrics have been validated by Verifavia.

Established in 1959, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries worldwide. In the financial year 2023-24 alone, it handled over 778,000 aircraft turns and moved nearly three million tonnes of cargo.