Dnata transitions entire Dubai airside fleet to biodiesel

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David Barker Regional CEO, Airport Operations - Americas | dnata

By Sky Industry News

Sep 5, 2024

Dnata, a prominent global air and travel services provider, has announced a significant development in its sustainability efforts. The company revealed that all non-electric airside vehicles and ground support equipment at its largest operational hub in Dubai are now powered exclusively by a biodiesel blend. This initiative is part of dnata's collaboration with Dubai Airports and the Emirates National Oil Company Group (ENOC).

The transition to biodiesel is expected to reduce CO₂ equivalent emissions by over 3,500 tonnes annually throughout the lifecycle of the fuel used by dnata's fleet. This reduction equates to more than 21 million kilometers driven by an average diesel-powered vehicle.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, emphasized the importance of this move: "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."

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The project covers 2,500 vehicles involved in handling over 220,000 flights annually at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC). Dnata had already been using biodiesel blends for other fleets within the UAE since last summer.

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, highlighted the significance of cooperation in achieving sustainability goals: "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."

ENOC Group has supported dnata’s transition with dedicated biofuel trucks and fuel stations. His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO at ENOC stated: “We are delighted to continue our ongoing cooperation with dnata by delivering biodiesel to their airside fleet and ground support equipment (GSE)."

Since its establishment in 1959, dnata has been integral to the UAE's aviation sector. Currently employing over 23,000 staff members across various services including ground handling and cargo operations for over 190 airlines.

Dnata has reported notable improvements across its global businesses for the financial year 2023-24. The company reduced carbon intensity by over 8%, 22%, and 26% across airport operations, travel, and catering businesses respectively.

Investments have been made into infrastructure that minimizes emissions through renewable energy usage where possible. In some regions like the UK and Ireland, solar and wind energy are exclusively used. Additionally, recent installations include solar panels in Pakistan and the Philippines.

The company also focuses on enhancing fleet efficiency through investments aimed at transitioning from diesel engines to hybrid or electric alternatives wherever feasible infrastructure exists.

In September 2023, dnata became the first combined air services provider awarded IATA’s environmental management certification for its commitment towards sustainability within its diverse business portfolio.