dnata, a premier global provider of air and travel services, has announced a significant advancement in its environmental sustainability efforts. The company’s entire fleet of non-electric airside vehicles and ground support equipment (GSE) at its primary hub in Dubai is now exclusively powered by a biodiesel blend.
This milestone, achieved in collaboration with Dubai Airports and the Emirates National Oil Company Group (ENOC), is anticipated to reduce CO₂ equivalent emissions by over 3,500 tonnes annually. This reduction equates to the carbon footprint of driving more than 21 million kilometres in a standard diesel vehicle.
The biodiesel initiative has been implemented progressively across dnata’s extensive ground handling and cargo operations at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum – Dubai World Central (DWC). It encompasses 2,500 vehicles that facilitate the safe and efficient handling of over 220,000 flights each year.
Since last summer, dnata has also integrated biodiesel into its landside fleets, including dnata logistics, City Sightseeing Tours, Arabian Adventures, and Alpha Flight Services in the UAE.
Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, commented, “The transition to biodiesel for our non-electric airside vehicles is a major stride in our decarbonisation strategy. It underscores our commitment to reducing emissions while upholding the highest standards of quality and safety. This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort with Dubai Airports and ENOC, aligning with the UAE Government’s Net Zero 2050 initiative. We are excited to continue working together to further decrease our environmental impact and set a benchmark for the aviation industry.”
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, added, “Sustainability in aviation demands collective action. Our partnership with dnata and ENOC to implement biodiesel illustrates how collaboration can drive meaningful progress. This initiative represents a crucial element of a broader strategy to enhance sustainability in ground support equipment, and we are proud to contribute to reducing dnata’s emissions and setting a new industry standard.”
ENOC Group has played a key role by supplying dedicated biofuel trucks and fueling stations to support dnata’s shift to biodiesel.
His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO of ENOC, remarked, “We are pleased to extend our collaboration with dnata by providing biodiesel for their airside fleet and GSE. This partnership highlights ENOC Group’s commitment to accelerating the UAE’s transition to clean and sustainable energy, in line with the National Policy on Biofuels. We look forward to furthering our support for clean energy alternatives and diversifying the national energy mix.”
dnata: A Pillar of the UAE’s Aviation Sector
Since its establishment in 1959, dnata has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s aviation industry. Reflecting Dubai’s growth, the dnata Group now employs over 23,000 staff and serves more than 190 passenger and cargo airlines nationwide. dnata operates all airside fuel stations and mobile refuelling services at both Dubai airports.
Significant Environmental Progress
dnata recently reported notable improvements in key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. The company reduced carbon intensity across its airport operations, travel, and catering businesses by 8%, 22%, and 26%, respectively. These results have been verified by Verifavia, an independent environmental certification body.
Investing in Sustainable Infrastructure and Technology
dnata’s commitment to reducing emissions includes using renewable energy sources where available, such as solar and wind power in the UK and Ireland. The company has installed solar panels in Pakistan and the Philippines, significantly increasing its use of renewable energy.
In the financial year 2023-24, dnata generated 21% more renewable energy and purchased 191% more renewable electricity compared to the previous year.
The company is also focused on modernising its fleet to enhance environmental efficiency, with a significant portion now electric in countries like the Netherlands (65%), Italy (44%), the UK (40%), and Switzerland (39%). dnata’s fleet strategy includes phasing out diesel engines in favour of hybrid, electric, or hydrogen options where infrastructure supports it.
Additionally, dnata monitors fuel consumption across its GSE fleet, optimises logistics to minimise travel distances, and promotes responsible driving practices through education and training.
