Dnata Adds 14 Electric Ground Power Units to Dubai Fleet Expansion

Post by : Elena Malik

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

Dnata, a prominent global air and travel services provider, has announced the addition of 14 new 180kVA electric ground power units (GPUs) to its ground support equipment fleet at Dubai International Airport (DXB). This strategic investment will significantly enhance operational efficiency, as these electric GPUs are set to handle 33% of all GPU utilization at the world’s busiest international airport. By replacing diesel-powered equipment, dnata aims to reduce fuel consumption by approximately 550,000 liters annually.

Ground power units are essential devices used to provide electrical power to aircraft while they are parked on the ground. dnata has already deployed its first four electric GPUs, which are currently supporting Emirates Engineering’s services. The remaining 10 units are scheduled to arrive in November, further bolstering the company’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.

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This latest fleet enhancement represents a $4 million investment and is part of dnata’s ongoing efforts to improve environmental efficiency across its operations. The company’s fleet strategy focuses on phasing out diesel-powered engines in favor of hybrid, electric, or hydrogen-powered alternatives, wherever airport infrastructure allows.

In addition to its commitment to electric GPUs, dnata is actively collaborating with biofuel suppliers to reduce emissions. Recently, the company transitioned its entire non-electric fleet to biodiesel across Dubai airports, including DXB and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC).

Jaffar Dawood, Senior Vice President of Airport Operations for the UAE and MEA at dnata, stated, “Our latest fleet investment underscores our commitment to utilizing electric equipment wherever airport infrastructure permits. It demonstrates our dedication to environmental responsibility and aligns with both customer expectations and the airport’s sustainability initiatives. This transition also enhances operational efficiency and reduces maintenance needs.”

Dawood emphasized dnata’s commitment to promoting industry collaboration and advocating for necessary infrastructure improvements to achieve a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030.

Environmental Performance Improvements

In the financial year 2023-24, dnata reported substantial improvements in key environmental performance metrics. The company successfully reduced the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8% in airport operations, 22% in travel services, and 26% in catering services. These achievements have been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

Investing in Sustainable Technologies

dnata is committed to minimizing emissions through investments in fleet, infrastructure, and technology. In regions like the UK and Ireland, the company exclusively sources solar and wind energy. Recently, dnata has also installed solar panels at several facilities in Pakistan and the Philippines to reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-generated electricity. In the current financial year, dnata has generated 21% more renewable energy and purchased 191% more renewable electricity compared to the previous year.

The company closely monitors fuel consumption across its fleet of ground support equipment using Vehicle Tracking Management Systems (VTMS). It conducts logistics mapping to minimize travel distances airside and optimizes shift schedules and parking slots to reduce fuel burn. Additionally, dnata tracks driver behavior, including vehicle idling times, and has established key performance indicators linked to its environmental management system. The company actively promotes responsible driving through education and training programs.

IATA Certification

In September 2023, dnata achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) environmental management certification. This recognition highlights dnata’s unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates.

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