Located at dnata’s Dubai International Airport (DXB) hub, the CICC provides teams with a centralised view of cargo operations across DXB and Dubai World Central-Al Maktoum International (DWC), enabling them to anticipate operational requirements, coordinate resources and respond quickly to changing conditions.

Connecting an operation of significant scale

The CICC oversees an operation that handled more than one million tonnes of cargo, 189,000 flight movements and 46,000 truck movements in the 2025-26 financial year. The facility brings greater visibility across this complex operation, supporting coordination between teams, facilities and activities across both airports.

The evolution of the command centre comes as Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a major global cargo and logistics hub. Global air cargo demand reached record levels in 2025, increasing 3.4% year-on-year, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Dubai is also investing significantly in the future expansion of DWC, creating additional capacity to support the emirate’s long-term aviation and logistics growth.

Turning operational data into faster decisions

At the heart of the CICC is dnata’s internally developed operational dashboard, which consolidates critical information and refreshes every 10 seconds, giving teams a near real-time view of operations.

The centre draws on dnata’s core cargo management system, One Cargo, which reflects operational activities and transactions in real time, as well as its Appointment and Dock Management (ADM) system, which provides visibility of truck movements across both airports. It also includes data from Calogi, dnata’s cargo community platform, to help teams oversee landside activities and ancillary services, including last-mile delivery.

Together, these systems enable the CICC team to monitor activity across dnata’s cargo network, identify potential bottlenecks and support coordinated action across facilities and teams.

Enhancing operational visibility and coordination

With a comprehensive view of the cargo journey, CICC teams can make faster, better-informed decisions around workload, capacity and resources. This helps maintain the smooth flow of cargo through dnata’s facilities and supports a consistently high level of service for airline and freight forwarding customers.

Nabil Sultan Al Murr, Group Chief Executive Officer, dnata, said: “Cargo operations involve thousands of interconnected activities every day, making operational visibility essential to maintaining performance at scale. Our enhanced cargo command centre is part of our ambition to continuously evolve our operating model and infrastructure to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global logistics hub.

“The integration of our people, systems and operational data into a single operating environment gives us a stronger foundation to manage increasing complexity and support future growth.”

Building for the future

The enhanced CICC builds on dnata’s continued investment in technology and digitalisation across its Dubai cargo operations.

Recent initiatives include the integration of autonomous drones into warehouse inventory processes, delivering more than 99% accuracy in shipment tracking, as well as a centralised cargo screening control room developed with Dubai Police, which enables six X-ray screening machines at DXB to be remotely operated and monitored from a single location.

The CICC has been designed with future growth in mind, providing a scalable model that can evolve alongside dnata’s expanding cargo operations and support increasing capacity and operational complexity across the UAE.

dnata will operate from a 5,000 sqm warehouse facility within WSI’s 24-hour Cargo Precinct, supported by an additional 4,000 sqm of surrounding land. The airport will deliver the site as a cold shell, with dnata undertaking a full operational fit-out of the terminal, including critical infrastructure and the installation of a semi-motorised materials handling system.

Approximately A$6 million of the investment will be allocated to specialised equipment and technology to ensure scalable, efficient and future-ready cargo operations, including capabilities to support specialised cargo such as pharmaceuticals and other time- and temperature-sensitive shipments.

Freighter operations are scheduled to commence in July 2026, ahead of the airport’s full passenger opening later this year. 

The facility will handle up to 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually at maturity, strengthening capacity in New South Wales, which plays a central role in Australia’s air freight network. 

The new operation is projected to create approximately 50 direct roles in its initial phase, with further employment opportunities anticipated as volumes grow and operations expand. In addition to direct jobs, the facility will generate broader economic benefits across freight forwarding, logistics, ground handling and associated supply chain services in Western Sydney. 

Burt Sigsworth, Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations - Australia said: “Our investment in Western Sydney International reflects strong confidence in the region’s long-term economic trajectory and the critical role air freight plays in supporting Australian trade.”

“By establishing a purpose-built cargo facility from day one, we are strengthening supply chain resilience, supporting local industry and creating skilled employment opportunities in one of the country’s fastest-growing economic corridors.”

The development of dedicated cargo infrastructure at WSI is expected to enhance efficiency for airlines, freight forwarders and integrators, improving connectivity for time-sensitive and high-value goods moving through New South Wales. 

Simon Hickey, Chief Executive Officer of WSI, said dnata was a terrific addition to the airport’s premier 24-hour Cargo Precinct and would provide cargo and ground handling services for both international and domestic airlines, boosting the nation’s critical supply chains.  

“We’re thrilled to welcome dnata Cargo to WSI’s brand-new cargo hub, bringing its top-tier services for airlines and their customers and creating more meaningful job opportunities for workers across Greater Sydney,” he said.  

“Our purpose-built 24-hour Cargo Precinct will increase Sydney’s air cargo capacity and provide dedicated access via the upgraded Northern Road with close proximity to growing freight and logistics centres at Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis. 

“Like everything at WSI, the Cargo Precinct is built for growth, and while we’re excited to open stage one and launch operations by the end of July, it also has capacity to expand significantly over the years ahead, in line with market demands.”  

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King welcomed dnata Cargo and said the new freight operator will connect Western Sydney to the world, allowing us to move another 60,000 tonnes of cargo through Sydney’s new airport every year.

“Western Sydney is the logistics heart of NSW, and our new airport will work hand in hand with other Australian Government investments, like the Moorebank Intermodal Terminal, to get goods off planes and across the country quickly and efficiently,” she said.

“This airport is built to grow, which will give Australian businesses the capacity and ability to grow alongside it.”

WSI’s Cargo Precinct includes warehousing and will be capable of servicing eight wide-body aircraft at any one time and will open with capacity to handle at least 220,000 tonnes of freight a year. 

The announcement builds on dnata’s earlier commitment, through its Catering & Retail division, to invest in developing an advanced inflight catering centre within WSI’s Cargo Precinct. The new facility will be capable of producing up to three million meals annually, supporting airline partners operating at Sydney’s first 24-hour airport. 

dnata’s operations in Australia 

dnata has a long-established presence in Australia, operating across nine airports nationwide, where it provides cargo, ground handling, passenger services and inflight catering. The company supports more than 107,000 aircraft movements per year, and processes around 300,000 tonnes of cargo across its Australian network. Through its catering division, dnata produces and delivers more than 54 million meals annually for airline partners. 

Employing approximately 8,000 people across Australia, dnata plays a significant role in supporting aviation connectivity, trade flows and supply chain performance in one of the Asia-Pacific region’s most dynamic markets. The investments at Western Sydney International reinforce this long-term commitment to strengthening national infrastructure and supporting sustainable industry growth. 

dnata handled 56,000 tonnes of cargo in 2025, up nearly 4% year on year, reflecting sustained demand for quality cargo services and the need for expanded infrastructure at Zurich Airport.

A long-term investment in Zurich

Construction of the new dnata Cargo Centre is well advanced and forms part of dnata’s long-term investment in its Zurich operations. The facility is scheduled to open in early 2027.

Once operational, dnata’s annual cargo handling capacity in Zurich will increase by 50%, from 60,000 to 90,000 tonnes, marking a significant expansion of its operational capabilities at the airport.

The facility will include 8,330 square metres of warehouse space, of which 7,580 square metres will be dedicated to indoor cargo handling, complemented by 4,600 metres of covered outdoor handling areas. It will replace the existing Fracht West warehouse, originally built in the 1960s, which has reached the limits of its operational and expansion potential.

The new facility is being developed by Zurich Airport. Alongside the airport’s investment of more than CHF 40 million in the building infrastructure, dnata is committing approximately CHF 6 million to equip the site, including the installation of its modern ULD material handling system. The development supports rising demand across both general cargo and specialised products, including pharmaceuticals.

“The new dnata Cargo Centre represents a significant long-term investment in our operations at Zurich Airport,” said Willy Ruf, Managing Director, dnata Switzerland.

“Cargo operations at Zurich have evolved significantly over the past decade, with higher volumes, tighter turnaround expectations and a growing share of specialised shipments. This new facility allows us to rethink how cargo flows through the airport, from landside access to warehouse handling, in a way that better reflects how the market actually operates today.”

Designed for efficiency, safety and specialised cargo

The new facility has been developed with efficiency, safety and scalability at its core. Its layout will support streamlined cargo flows through two truck docks for ULD handling and 18 dock levellers, improving landside access and turnaround times, while increased storage capacity will allow dnata to manage higher volumes more effectively.

A dedicated 1,000-square-metre pharmaceutical handling area will support GDP-compliant operations, including temperature-controlled zones for both 2–8°C and 15–25°C cargo. An advanced ULD material handling system will streamline cargo flows, improve throughput and enhance operational control, while modern office spaces will enable closer collaboration between operational and administrative teams.

A phased transition with service continuity at the core

The move to the new cargo centre is being carefully managed through a phased approach to ensure continuity of service throughout the relocation period. Early access to the site will enable the development installation of specialised infrastructure in all handling areas, followed by the progressive handover of the warehouse and office spaces and the staged relocation of teams, ahead of the full transfer of cargo-handling activities from the existing Fracht West facility.

Strengthening dnata’s global cargo infrastructure

The Zurich expansion is part of dnata’s broader investment in cargo infrastructure across its global network. Recent milestones include the opening of its new cargo centre in Amsterdam, with further facility developments underway in Milan, Dubai and Erbil. These projects reflect dnata’s continued focus on building scalable, future-ready cargo operations in key logistics markets worldwide.

dnata in Switzerland

dnata maintains a strong operational presence in Switzerland, with ground handling and cargo activities at Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA). Across these locations, the company supports more than 40 airline customers and employs approximately 1300 people.

Globally, dnata delivers reliable and safe ground handling and cargo services at more than 90 airports across 16 countries. In the financial year 2024-25, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 794,000 aircraft turns and moved 3.1 million tonnes of cargo.

From a single high-tech command centre, Dubai Police officers can now remotely operate and monitor six X-ray screening machines across dnata’s warehouse. Each device is connected to One Cargo, dnata’s digital cargo management system that automates key business and operational functions. This allows for instant data sharing, streamlined workflows, and faster decision-making.

“This project is a milestone in dnata’s journey towards smarter, more efficient cargo handling,” said Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Chief Cargo Officer. “Through close collaboration with Dubai Police, we’ve introduced a model that strengthens security, boosts efficiency, and reflects Dubai’s commitment to innovation.”

Smarter, faster, safer

Previously, screening was conducted at multiple warehouse locations, leading to higher resource use and reduced efficiency. The new centralised approach consolidates all processes into one hub, reducing screening time and improving throughput by around 3 per cent annually.

dnata, which serves more than 120 airline customers, handles on average 60,000 tonnes of cargo monthly in its DXB facility. Earlier this year, the company announced a significant milestone of processing more than 1 million tonnes of cargo between April 2024 and March 2025, marking the highest volume ever handled in a year across both its DXB and DWC operations, representing year-on-year growth of around 30 per cent. 

This surge reflects the broader story of Dubai’s logistics growth. The rise of e-commerce, the region’s growing consumer population and Dubai’s strategic location as a global transit hub are driving cargo volumes to new heights.

The new system reduces manual touchpoints, enables advanced analytics, and helps optimise resource use, lowering unnecessary cargo movement and fuel consumption inside the facility.

A model of collaboration

The centralised screening control room was jointly designed by dnata and Dubai Police to support both primary and secondary command functions. It is equipped with advanced monitoring interfaces, live imaging, and automated reporting tools that ensure traceability across every stage of the screening process.

“Dubai’s success as a global hub comes from a shared commitment between public and private partners,” added Crozier. “This collaboration with Dubai Police reflects that spirit – leveraging technology and trust to create a strong cargo ecosystem that keeps the city’s trade moving efficiently.”

Driving dnata’s innovation agenda

The new control room is one piece of dnata’s wider push to reimagine cargo operations through data, automation, and design thinking.

Across its Dubai facilities, the company is exploring autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) that can move shipments safely and efficiently across the warehouse floor – reducing forklift movements and improving space utilisation.

At the same time, dnata is testing automated dimensioning and load-optimisation tools that use sensors and smart algorithms to capture the exact size and weight of every shipment. This allows teams to maximise space inside Unit Load Devices (ULDs), cut waste, and plan more precise, data-driven cargo flows.

“Behind every piece of technology we adopt are the people who make it work,” said Crozier. “Our teams on the ground are the driving force behind this transformation – using new tools to move cargo more securely and intelligently than ever before.”

After accounting for income tax charges, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion).

Illustrating its strong operating profitability, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA of AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.7 billion), 3% higher than the AED 20.4 billion (US$ 5.6 billion) reported for the same period last year.

Group revenue was AED 75.4 billion (US$ 20.6 billion) for the first six months of 2025-26, up 4% from AED 70.8 billion (US$ 19.3 billion) last year.

The Group closed the first half year of 2025-26 with a record cash position of AED 56.0 billion (US$ 15.2 billion) on 30 September 2025, compared to AED 53.4 billion (US$ 14.6 billion) on 31 March 2025. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including payments for new aircraft deliveries and other debt. The Group also paid AED 2 billion (US$ 545 million) in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2024-25 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “The Group has once again delivered an outstanding performance, surpassing our half-year results of last year to achieve a new record profit for H1 2025-26. I’m delighted to note that Emirates maintains its position as the world’s most profitable airline for this half-year reporting period.

“We saw benefit from lower fuel prices and a favourable currency exchange environment, but primarily, it was the unflagging demand and growing customer preference for our product and services that drove revenue growth and profitability.

“Emirates and dnata have invested billions to continually enhance our products and services, to bring new products to market, to improve our operations through innovation and technology, and to look after our employees who ensure our customers’ safety and satisfaction. These are core to our DNA. 

“The Group’s strong profitability enables us to continue making these investments, and to scale up our proven business models in concert with Dubai’s growth as a global city of choice for talent, for businesses, and for tourists.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “Global demand for air transport and travel services has been buoyant, despite geo-political events and economic concerns in some markets. We expect this demand resilience to continue for the rest of 2025-26 and look forward to increasing our capacity to grow revenues as new A350 aircraft join the Emirates fleet, and new facilities come online at dnata.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2025, grew 3% to an overall count of 124,927 on 30 September 2025. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata saw strong growth in the first six months of 2025-26, as it continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses.

In the first half of 2025-26, dnata’s airport services and catering and retail divisions won several significant new contracts and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the diverse requirements of its airline customers with high safety standards and consistently high-quality products and services.

dnata continued to make strategic investments in its business to respond to customer needs and tap on market prospects. It announced plans to deploy 800 new ground support equipment (GSE) units across its global network in 2025, an investment valued at US$ 110 million to further enhance operational performance and secure a steady supply of advanced, lower-emission equipment to support dnata’s growth and sustainability targets.

Other highlights in the first half of 2025-26 include: the launch of its airport hospitality brand, marhaba, in the United Kingdom; a €3 million minority stake investment in WonderMiles, an advanced NDC-enabled booking platform to strengthen dnata Travel’s corporate business offering; and the disposal of its 75% stake in Super Bus, which operates sightseeing tours in the UAE.

dnata also entered its first major sports sponsorship partnership, signing a three-year agreement with Dubai Basketball to become a Founding Partner of the city’s first professional basketball franchise.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 11.7 billion (US$ 3.2 billion) increased by 13% compared to AED 10.4 billion (US$ 2.8 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit before tax for dnata is AED 843 million (US$ 230 million), up by 17% from the same period last year. dnata’s profit after tax is AED 697 million (US$ 190 million).

Illustrating its operating profitability, dnata’s EBITDA was AED 1.4 billion (US$ 372 million), up 5% from last year’s AED 1.3 billion (US$ 354 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 5.5 billion (US$ 1.5 billion), a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Italy, Australia, the UK and the UAE.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 15% to 450,903 bolstered by its newly launched operations at Rome Fiumicino Airport, and it recorded 1.59 million tonnes of cargo handled, up by 3% due to additional cargo handling driven by its UAE operations.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) to its revenue, up 11% as its retail product grew significantly as part of the division’s strategy, catering production increases in Australia and the UK to meet customer demand, and the positive impact of revised contracts to reflect rising supply costs. The overall number of meals uplifted slightly decreased by 1% to 60.0 million meals compared to last year.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 2.0 billion (US$ 538 million) to revenue, up 11% compared to AED 1.8 billion (US$ 483 million) for the same period last year.  The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) of AED 5.0 billion (US$ 1.4 billion), compared to AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion), up 9% compared to the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to enhance its network and connectivity options through its Dubai hub.  During the first half of 2025-26, Emirates launched new flight services to: Danang, Siem Reap, Shenzhen and Hangzhou. At 30 September, Emirates’ passenger and cargo network spanned 153 airports in 81 countries and territories.

The airline strengthened its network connectivity by deploying 28 additional weekly scheduled flights to: Antananarivo, Johannesburg, Muscat, Rome, Riyadh and Taipei.

Providing even more connection options for customers, during the first six months of 2025-26, Emirates entered agreements with 3 codeshare and interline partners: Air Seychelles, Condor, and Aurigny.

Between 1 April and 30 September, Emirates received delivery of 5 new A350 aircraft, adding more Business Class and Premium Economy seats into the airline’s inventory.  During this period, 23 aircraft (6 A380s, 17 Boeing 777s) with fully refreshed interiors rolled out of the airline’s US$ 5 billion retrofit programme. This enabled Emirates to bring its latest cabin products to even more markets, including the industry-leading Emirates Premium Economy. By 30 September, Emirates Premium Economy was available to customers flying between Dubai and 61 cities.

On ground, “Emirates First” opened at Dubai Airport, offering First Class customers and Platinum Skywards members a luxurious private check-in area and experience. In the first six months of 2025-26, Emirates accelerated the roll-out of its retail strategy with the opening of new concept travel stores in Accra, Bangkok, Geneva, Jakarta, Mauritius, Osaka, Seoul, Singapore.

Emirates continued to progress on its environmental initiatives, uplifting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) where available and feasible, including at 37 airports.  In April, Emirates joined the Aviation Circularity Consortium (ACC), a network of organisations committed to building a circular economy for aviation and creating new pathways to accelerate decarbonisation through high-value circularity in the global supply chain.

In the first half of 2025-26, Emirates made notable investments to boost its global brand visibility. The airline signed multi-year sponsorship deals to become Platinum Partner of FC Bayern Munchen, Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid Basketball, and Premium Partner and Official Airline Partner of the Investec Champions Cup and European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) Challenge Cup. Emirates also extended its partnership with ATP as Premier Partner and Official Airline of the ATP Tour up to 2030, and its shirt sponsorship with Olympique Lyonnais until 2030. 

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 5% to 31.3 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to expanded flight operations. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 5%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 4% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 79.5%, compared with 80.0% during the same period last year. Emirates carried 27.8 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2025, up 4% from the same period last year.

Emirates SkyCargo transported 1.25 million tonnes in the first six months of the year, up by 4% compared to the same period last year. Customer demand for Emirates SkyCargo’s specialised products and excellent network of freighter and bellyhold cargo operations remained steady. However, cargo yields decreased by 6% due to softening demand in some market segments amidst tariff concerns.

Emirates SkyCargo added capacity from 3 new Boeing 777 freighter delivered. In April, the cargo division launched Emirates Courier Express, an innovative product that leverages the power of the airline’s global network to provide door-to-door express shipping services for businesses.

Cementing its position as the world’s most profitable airline for the half year reporting period, Emirates profit before tax for the first half of 2025-26 hit a new record of AED 11.4 billion (US$ 3.1 billion), compared to AED 9.7 billion (US$ 2.6 billion) last year. Emirates profit after tax is AED 9.9 billion (US$ 2.7 billion).

Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 65.6 billion (US$ 17.9 billion) was up 6% compared with AED 62.2 billion (US$ 16.9 billion) for the same period last year. The airline’s new record revenue can be attributed to unabated travel appetite across markets, and customer preference for Emirates’ products and services, particularly for its premium cabins.

Emirates’ operating costs (including fuel) grew by 4% in line with increased operations. While average fuel prices were 10% lower compared to the same period last year, fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost at 30%.

Driven by customer demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA of AED 19.7 billion (US$ 5.4 billion) remained strong, up 3% compared to AED 19.1 billion (US$ 5.2 billion) for the same period last year.

Emirates Flight Catering grew revenue from external customers by 13% to AED 555 million (US$ 151 million), uplifting 7.7 million meals (up by 2%) for 116 airlines during the period.

Emirates Leisure Retail acquired the remaining 25% stake in Air Ventures LLC in the US, securing full ownership of the entity, which operates airport retail and F&B outlets.

The venture, set to launch with the opening of the new terminal in April 2027, represents a significant investment in the future of Azerbaijan’s aviation and logistics sectors. It will combine dnata’s global expertise with Silk Way Group’s local market leadership to deliver end-to-end aviation services in Azerbaijan.

Alat International Airport’s advanced logistics facilities will be capable of handling more than 500,000 tonnes of cargo per year, with a projected annual volume growth of 5% over the next decade.

Comprehensive service platform

The joint venture will initially focus on cargo and ground handling, before expanding into catering, freight forwarding, de-icing, and a range of additional services. The aim is to build an integrated one-stop-shop for airlines and airport customers, offering world-class efficiency and service standards, in Baku.

The project is expected to generate over 1,000 local jobs, with investment in skills development and training to create long-term opportunities in Azerbaijan’s aviation sector.

Building on a proven partnership

dnata is a long-standing partner of Silk Way Group. It currently provides a range of air services to Silk Way West Airlines across five countries, handling 1,150 flights and 85,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “Our joint venture with the Silk Way Group is an important step in expanding dnata’s global footprint and supporting the Caucasus region’s rapid growth. Baku’s new airport will be a critical hub for cargo flows in the region, and our investment ensures that airlines and logistics partners have access to safe, quality, and reliable services from day one.

He added: “Beyond operational excellence, this venture reflects our long-term strategy to provide integrated aviation solutions in high-potential markets. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Silk Way Group to support Azerbaijan’s aviation and logistics industries, businesses and wider communities.”

Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group, said: “Our partnership with dnata marks a new milestone in the development of Azerbaijan’s aviation industry. Together, we are shaping a modern ecosystem that will connect the Alat Free Economic Zone with the global aviation and logistics network. This joint venture represents not only an investment in infrastructure but also in people — creating new jobs, developing professional skills, and building a foundation for sustainable growth. The establishment of aviation services at Alat International Airport is a strategic step toward realizing our vision of transforming Azerbaijan into a leading regional hub.”

Alat International Airport: a regional aviation hub

Located in the Alat Free Economic Zone, Alat International Airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000-meter runway and taxiway, as well as an air traffic control centre. The project is designed to enhance the country’s transportation capabilities and stimulate the comprehensive economic development of the surrounding region.

Upon completion in 2027, the wider Alat Free Economic Zone will become a prominent transit hub, featuring integrated logistics infrastructure. The zone will benefit from direct access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port, extensive railway and motorway networks - collectively enhancing Azerbaijan's transportation and distribution capabilities.

Dubai, UAE, 18 September 2025: dnata has signed a three-year sponsorship agreement with Dubai Basketball, becoming a Founding Partner of the city’s first professional basketball franchise. The deal represents dnata’s first major sports sponsorship and places the company’s brand at the centre of one of the most ambitious sporting projects in the region.

With Dubai Basketball preparing for both the prestigious EuroLeague, and a return to the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League, the partnership highlights dnata’s commitment to elevating the profile of basketball in the UAE and showcasing the nation’s growing role in international competition.

From runway to the rim

As part of the partnership, dnata’s branding will appear on Dubai Basketball’s official jerseys, across the Coca-Cola Arena home court, and on the team’s digital platforms. The company will also leverage the partnership to showcase its portfolio of brands – including dnata Travel, Arabian Adventures, and marhaba – through game-day experiences and fan activations.

dnata will also serve as the official travel partner of Dubai Basketball, supporting the team’s journey across Europe and ensuring seamless travel as the club competes in elite competitions.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “This is a landmark moment for dnata and a true full-court press into the world of sport. Like Dubai Basketball, we believe in a play-to-win mindset – aiming high, competing with the best, and never settling for less. Their rapid rise mirrors our own journey as a Dubai-born company that has grown into a truly global brand, driven by the same discipline and teamwork that turn good into great.”

“Basketball has a universal appeal - it transcends borders, unites communities, and brings everyone, including families, together through a shared passion. We play the same role through our global services, connecting millions across continents and meeting the needs of every journey. As Dubai Basketball prepares to represent the city in Europe’s top leagues, we are proud to stand alongside them, support their growth, and bring our brands closer to fans at home and abroad.”

From Dubai to the world

Dubai Basketball has made rapid progress since its formation in 2023. In its debut season in the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League, the club advanced to the semifinals and finished third overall, a landmark achievement for a first-year team.

The franchise has been confirmed to return to the ABA League and will also compete in the EuroLeague, widely regarded as one of the strongest basketball competitions in the world. Home games will be staged at Coca-Cola Arena, bringing some of Europe’s most storied clubs to the city.

Co-Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Basketball, Nick Oakley commented: “Dubai Basketball will compete in Europe’s great cities, carrying the pride of Dubai onto the world stage. We are proud to welcome dnata as our official travel partner, a world-class brand that shares our vision and ambition. Together, we will build an extraordinary team for our city and create a sporting experience that unites and inspires our fans.”

As Dubai Basketball further cements its international name through the upcoming leagues, dnata – with operations across six continents – is aligning its global presence with the team’s rapid ascent. The collaboration reflects how both brands are carrying Dubai’s name into arenas worldwide, in sport and in travel and aviation.

The partnership also presents a unique opportunity for dnata to tap into the club’s growing fanbase. During Dubai Basketball’s debut at the ABA League last season, Coca-Cola Arena attracted nearly 80,000 spectators in just 18 home games. With the team now competing in the EuroLeague, the agreement marks the start of a three-year collaboration that will see dnata embedded into Dubai Basketball’s journey across a minimum of 31 home games in a single season, with visibility on and off the court as they take on Europe’s best.

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2024-25, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 794,000 aircraft turns, moved 3.1 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 114 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.6 billion.

For more information, visit dnata.com. For media enquiries, reach out to public.relations@dnata.com.

About Dubai Basketball

Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball is a newly established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2024/25 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players, with the team represented by countries including the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, Latvia, Italy, Bosnia, and France. The franchise plays their home games in the ABA League at Coca-Cola Arena.

Dubai Basketball stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the landscape of basketball in the UAE and beyond. Its foundation is built upon a diverse and talented team, consisting of FIBA-certified coaches, former professional players, business experts, and passionate enthusiasts.

Dubai Basketball is committed to catalysing positive social change, where dreams are not just envisioned but realised, talents are not merely found but nurtured, and aspirations are not only lived but fulfilled.

Keep up to date with the latest news on Dubai Basketball by visiting www.dubaibasketball.com or on social media platforms:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dubaibasketballclub/

X - https://x.com/dubaibasket

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DubaiBasketball

Media enquiries: David Jover, david.j@dubaibasketball.com or Hanan Mohamed, hanan.m@dubaibasketball.com

Alex Doisneau has been named Regional Chief Executive Officer for Airport Operations in the Asia Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA) regions, effective 1 August 2025.

In her new role, Alex will oversee dnata’s ground handling and cargo businesses in Australia, Singapore, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iraq and Zanzibar (Tanzania). She will lead a team of nearly 8,000 employees, who collectively handle over 110,000 aircraft turns and approximately 800,000 tonnes of cargo each year across 23 airports.

Alex brings nearly three decades of experience in aviation and ground handling to the role. She joined dnata in 2012 as General Manager of UK Cargo Operations and was later promoted to Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations UK in 2020.

Alex will report to Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO - Airport Operations at dnata, and will be relocating to Dubai for her new role.  

“Alex has led our UK operations with clarity, consistency, and a strong people-first approach,” said Clive Sauvé-Hopkins.

“Her track record of operational leadership, commercial acumen, and focus on safety and service make her the ideal choice to lead our business in these fast-growing regions. We look forward to the impact she will have as we continue to grow our international footprint.”

With Alex stepping into the regional role, James Butler has been appointed Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations UK. In his new role, James will lead dnata's ground handling and cargo business spanning six airports across the UK. 

James joined dnata in 2018 and has served as Finance Director since 2020, overseeing financial strategy, business planning, and operations. His prior roles at Menzies Aviation and Flybe have equipped him with a deep understanding of the aviation and logistics sectors.

“Alex and James represent the strength of our internal talent pipeline,” Clive Sauvé-Hopkins concluded. “Their promotions reflect our continued commitment to investing in our people and creating opportunities for growth.”

The record reflects a 30% year-on-year increase, driven by strong demand for dnata’s reliable, high-quality services. Operating from advanced facilities at both Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC) airports, dnata currently serves more than 120 airline customers, safely managing a broad range of cargo, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, live animals, aircraft engines and vehicles.  

Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Chief Cargo Officer, said: “We are incredibly proud to reach this milestone in Dubai, the birthplace of dnata and our largest cargo station. This achievement reflects the strength of our operations and the vital role dnata plays in enabling the smooth and efficient flow of goods through the emirate.

“Our success is built on the dedication of our people and the outstanding collaboration with our industry partners and authorities, including Dubai Airports, Dubai Customs and Dubai Police. I sincerely thank them all as we continue to raise the bar for cargo handling in the region and beyond.

“We will continue to invest in our operations to contribute to Dubai’s success and growth as a major gateway for commerce, connectivity and innovation.”

Investing in technology and sustainability

dnata provides end-to-end cargo handling services with a team of over 2,000 professionals at Dubai’s two airports. Its recent investments include the rollout of OneCargo, its digital cargo management system. OneCargo automates key business and operational functions, including safety and quality monitoring, reporting and ULD management, with an integrated, cloud-based platform. AI-driven tools and analytics provide enhanced visibility on sales and business performance, allowing customers to match real-time demand with available capacity for maximum profitability. In addition, OneCargo eliminates all redundancies and manual check sheets.

Further innovation highlights include the successful integration of autonomous drones into dnata’s operations, which significantly reduced processing times and increased accuracy in shipment tracking.

dnata also consistently takes initiatives to enhance environmental efficiency across its operations. Most recently, it transitioned its entire non-electric ground support equipment (GSE) fleet to run on biodiesel in Dubai. The company also actively works to repurpose and recycle materials, including cargo pallets and nets, supporting broader efforts to drive circularity and reduce environmental impact across the industry. 

dnata: a leading global cargo services provider

dnata provides quality and safe ground handling and cargo services at over 90 airports in 16 countries. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s teams handled 2.9 million tonnes of cargo globally, which represents a 5% growth year over year.

New developments in The Netherlands, UAE and Iraq are set to go live in 2025, strengthening dnata’s cargo and logistics capabilities across its global operations.

“As supply chains evolve and customer expectations shift, we’re focused on investing in infrastructure that’s fit for purpose today and adaptable for tomorrow”, said Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, dnata’s CEO – Airport Operations. “Our latest investments prioritise automation, scalability and energy efficiency, enabling us to support our customers more effectively in a fast-changing logistics environment.”

Future-ready infrastructure to meet shifting market trends

All three new dnata facilities have been designed to reduce manual handling, improve real-time visibility, and enable scalable automation. Their modular architecture allows for future technology upgrades and operational flexibility. Integrated sustainability features will help drive long-term energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

• Amsterdam, The Netherlands: dnata is investing more than US$ 70 million in a 61,000 m², fully-automated cargo centre -dnata Cargo City Amsterdam- at Schiphol Airport (AMS), set to open in July 2025. The facility will be capable of processing more than 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually. It will feature the latest technologies, including automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for flexible, scalable ULD transport within the terminal.

dnata Cargo City Amsterdam will also offer full AWB (air waybill) control across the entire facility, allowing complete oversight of shipment progress and documentation. Operations will be centrally managed via dnata’s Cargo Control Centre, with live process visibility for real-time coordination.  Smart gates will automatically record the volume and weight of all incoming consignments using 3D scanning, significantly improving handling speed and service quality. A forklift guidance system will support optimised movement and placement of cargo within the warehouse. Additionally, the facility will perform 100% weight and dimension checks, ensuring accuracy and compliance for every shipment. 

• Erbil, Iraq: dnata is building a 20,000 m² cargo facility through a US$ 15 million investment, scheduled to become operational in July 2025. The facility will increase dnata’s handling capacity by 300% to 66,000 tonnes annually in the country. It will incorporate dnata’s ‘OneCargo’ system which automates key business and operational functions, including safety and quality monitoring, reporting and ULD management, with an integrated, cloud-based platform. 
   
• Dubai, UAE: dnata Logistics is developing a new 57,000m² cargo centre at Dubai South, backed by a US$ 27 million investment. Due for completion by the end of 2025, the facility will process up to 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually.  The fully temperature-controlled warehouse will feature a mix of very narrow and wide aisle racking, along with truck loading and offloading areas to optimise operational efficiency.

Clive Sauvé-Hopkins added: “These projects are designed to deliver measurable gains in performance, traceability and resource efficiency. They form a key part of our long-term strategy to enhance service quality while building a more resilient, data-driven cargo operation.”

dnata leadership to speak at World Cargo Symposium 

dnata executives will take part in key discussions at the IATA World Cargo Symposium, sharing perspectives on innovation, digital infrastructure, and the industry’s path to greater operational and environmental efficiency.

These include:

• 15 April, 10:00 – 10:30, Opening plenary, Executive roundtable
  Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO, Airport Operations
   
• 15 April, 16:00 – 16:45, Opening plenary, Digital transformation & AI Use Cases
  Carly Abbott, Vice President, IT Product Delivery
   
• 16 April, 09:10 – 09:25, Sustainability stream, Keynote
  Noor Salman, Vice President, Cargo Business Support
   
• 16 April, 09:15 – 09:30, Digitisation stream, Keynote
  Guillaume Crozier, Chief Cargo Officer
   
• 16 April, 11:30 – 12:30, Safety & Security stream, Spotlight 1: Pharma
  Syed Haris Raza, Vice President of Cargo, dnata USA
   
• 17 April, 09:25 – 10:15, ULD Forum – Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced ULD Operations
  Sam Gould, Head of Cargo Services, dnata Singapore
   

dnata: a leading global cargo services provider

dnata provides quality and safe ground handling and cargo services at more than 90 airports in 16 countries. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s teams handled 2.9 million tonnes of cargo globally, which represents a 5% growth year over year.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, and Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, in the presence of senior executives from both entities.

The facility, which represents an investment of AED 100 million (US$ 27 million), will provide a major boost to the company’s operational capabilities amid rising demand for cargo and logistics services in the region. Capable of processing 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually, it will increase dnata Logistics’ storage capacity by 50% and create over 50 new, direct jobs with the company.

The facility will be equipped with the latest technologies, including automated systems for cargo storage and retrieval (ASRS), and truck loading and offloading. An AI-driven warehouse management system (WMS) will also be implemented, delivering superior efficiency and value for partners. 

In line with dnata’s global sustainability strategy, the warehouse was designed with a laser focus on environmental efficiency. It will feature solar panels, rainwater and energy harvesting systems, as well as smart heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The facility is expected to achieve the global LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification one year after operations begins.

Construction of the warehouse is underway, with completion scheduled for November 2025. Including its newest facility, dnata Logistics will offer world-class services from 11 locations in the UAE.

Sean Bradley, Managing Director of dnata Logistics, said: “We are thrilled to break ground on this new, advanced facility, which represents a pivotal investment in our future growth. As we expand our product offerings and reach new markets, this warehouse will allow us to provide even better services to our customers, while staying at the forefront of operational innovation.

“Our commitment to sustainability is central to this project. From energy efficiency to waste reduction, every aspect of the warehouse has been designed with environmental efficiency in mind. The facility’s innovative features will help us grow responsibly, making a positive impact on the communities we serve.”

Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District at Dubai South, commented: “We are pleased to witness the breaking ground of dnata’s innovative facility, which will add significant value to the thriving Dubai South area. We are committed to supporting dnata’s growth with this new facility as part of an integrated ecosystem, and we remain dedicated to strengthening Dubai’s position as a global logistics hub.”

dnata Logistics offers a comprehensive range of freight forwarding, warehousing and supply chain services to its global customer base, serving partners across various industries. The groundbreaking of its newest facility follows significant investments in infrastructure and offering to meet evolving market needs. Key highlights in recent years include the acquisition of a new warehouse facility at DWC, and the introduction of air import, perishable handling and documentation management services.

dnata Logistics is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services provider. In Dubai, dnata employs over 28,000 staff, delivering world-class ground handling, cargo and airport hospitality services to more than 170 airlines and over 90 million passengers annually.

About dnata Logistics

dnata Logistics is part of dnata, one of the world’s largest air and travel services provider. Established in 1976, dnata Logistics is an international multimodal freight forwarder, logistics and supply chain provider. Along with a wide range of transportation and logistics solutions in the 3 and 4PL space, dnata Logistics’ service offering includes customs compliance, project cargo planning, AOG/aircraft parts and ship spares logistics as well as full-service handling of events and exhibitions. The company also provides commercial and private removal services to local and international origins and destinations including a ‘white gloves’ fine art division, while linking the supply chain requirements of customers through its network of partners worldwide. dnata Logistics currently employs over 400 customer-oriented staff.

IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.

IATA’s comprehensive evaluation rigorously assessed dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). 

Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director, dnata Netherlands, said: “We are proud to be the first ground handler to earn the prestigious IEnvA certification in Europe. This accomplishment reflects our team’s dedication to environmental efficiency and our consistent efforts to contribute to dnata’s global decarbonisation journey. We will continue investing in infrastructure, equipment and process improvement to further reduce our environmental footprint.”

Rafael Schvartzman, Regional Vice President Europe, IATA, said: “We congratulate dnata Netherlands on becoming the first ground and cargo handler in Europe to achieve full IEnvA registration. This significant milestone demonstrates dnata Schiphol’s commitment to sustainable aviation and environmental excellence. By adhering to global environmental standards and best practices, dnata Schiphol is setting a strong example for the industry. We look forward to working together to further advance sustainable aviation practices.”

Consistent investments in operations to enhance environmental efficiency

In recent years, dnata Netherlands has significantly invested in the electrification of its ground handling fleet to reduce emissions. Currently, more than 70% of its ground support equipment fleet is powered by electricity or solar energy, with the remainder operating on 100% Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO100) biofuel.  

dnata’s newest facility, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, was also designed with a laser focus on sustainability. Scheduled to open in 2025, the facility will be equipped with solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and air source heat pumps. The cargo centre will be BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certified. 

dnata Netherlands: a leading ground and cargo services provider at Amsterdam Schiphol

dnata is a leading provider of ground and cargo handling services in Amsterdam. It serves 37 airlines with a team of 1,000 dedicated aviation professionals, who handle 10,000 flights and move 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

Significant improvement in environmental performance globally

Globally, dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

In addition to The Netherlands, dnata also earned the IEnvA certification for its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This is the first financial year that the UAE corporate income tax, enacted in 2023, is applied to the Emirates Group. After accounting for the 9% tax charge, the Group’s profit after tax is AED 9.3 billion (USD 2.5 billion).

Demonstrating its strong operating profitability, the Group maintained a robust EBITDA of AED 20.4 billion (US$ 5.6 billion), slightly lower from AED 20.6 billion (US$ 5.6 billion) last year.

Group revenue was AED 70.8 billion (US$ 19.3 billion) for the first six months of 2024-25, up 5% from AED 67.3 billion (US$ 18.3 billion) last year. This reflects the consistently strong customer demand across business divisions, and across regions.

The Group closed the first half year of 2024-25 with a solid cash position of AED 43.7 billion (US$ 11.9 billion) on 30 September 2024, compared to AED 47.1 billion (US$ 12.8 billion) on 31 March 2024. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including payments for new freighter aircraft orders and other debt payments. The Group also paid AED 2 billion in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2023-24 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “The Group has surpassed its record performance of last year to deliver a fantastic result for the first half of 2024-25. This again illustrates the power of our proven business model working in combination with Dubai’s growth trajectory as a city of choice to live, work, visit, connect through, and do business in.

“The Group’s strong profitability enables us to make the investments necessary for our continued success. We’re investing billions of dollars to bring new products and services to the market for our customers; to implement advanced technologies and other innovation projects to drive growth; and to look after our employees who work hard every day to ensure our customers’ safety and satisfaction.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “We expect customer demand to remain strong for the rest of 2024-25, and we look forward to increasing our capacity to grow revenues as new aircraft join the Emirates fleet and new facilities come online at dnata. The outlook is positive, but we don’t intend to rest on our laurels. We will stay agile in deploying our capacity and resources in a dynamic marketplace.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2024, grew 3% to an overall count of 114,610 on 30 September 2024. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata saw strong growth in the first six months of 2024-25, as it continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses.

In the first half of 2024-25, dnata’s airport services and catering and retail divisions won several significant new contracts, and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the diverse requirements of its airline customers with high safety standards and consistently high-quality products and services.

dnata continued to make strategic investments in its business to respond to customer needs and tap on market prospects. Highlights in the first half of 2024-25 include: the expansion of its USA footprint with the launch of ground handling operations at Raleigh-Durham International airport; the signing of significant deals for new ground support equipment (GSE) estimated at a total value of over US$ 210 million over their lifespan; and the planned 50% increase in cargo handling capacity in Zurich, Switzerland, with additional warehouse capacity.

dnata also progressed its environmental agenda to reduce emissions, with investments to transition its entire fleet of non-electric airside vehicles and GSEs in the UAE to biodiesel, and the addition of more electric GSEs to its Brazil and UAE operations.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 10.4 billion (US$ 2.8 billion) increased by 11% compared to AED 9.3 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit before tax for dnata is AED 720 million (US$ 196 million), down by 5% from the same period last year, primarily due to a one-off impairment charge of AED 152 million. dnata’s profit after tax is AED 571 million (US$ 156 million).

Illustrating its operating profitability, dnata’s EBITDA was AED 1.3 billion (US$ 354 million), up 16% from last year’s AED 1.1 billion (US$ 305 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 4.8 billion (US$ 1.3 billion), a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Australia, Singapore, the UAE and UK.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 2% to 391,365, and it recorded 1.5 million tonnes of cargo handled, up by 18% due to the buoyant demand for air cargo services globally.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) to its revenue, up 8% with catering production increases in Australia and the UK to meet customer demand, as well as the growth of its retail product as part of the division’s strategy, and the positive impact of revised contracts to reflect rising supply costs. The overall number of meals uplifted decreased by 5% to 62.7 million meals compared to last year’s 66.3 million meals.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 1.8 billion (US$ 483 million) to revenue, up 23% compared to AED 1.4 billion (US$ 391 million) for the same period last year, with strong contributions from its Imagine Cruising, Destination Asia and Middle East Corporate Travel businesses. The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) sales of AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion), compared to AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) for the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to enhance its network and increase connectivity options through its Dubai hub.  During the first half of 2024-25, Emirates increased scheduled flights to 8 cities: Amsterdam, Cebu, Clark, Luanda, Lyon, Madrid, Manila and Singapore.

In May, Emirates restarted daily services to Phnom Penh in Cambodia via Singapore. In June, it launched daily services to Bogotá via Miami, expanding the airline’s South American presence to Colombia. In September, Emirates opened a new route to Madagascar via the Seychelles – taking its passenger and cargo network to 148 airports in 80 countries by 30 September.

Expanding connectivity options for customers, during the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates entered into new agreements with 7 codeshare, interline, and intermodal partners: AirPeace, Avianca, BLADE, ITA Airways, Iceland Air, SNCF Railway, and Viva Aerobus.

Between 1 April and 30 September, 8 aircraft (3 A380s, 5 Boeing 777s) with fully refreshed interiors rolled out of the airline’s US$ 4 billion retrofit programme. This enabled Emirates to accelerate the deployment of its latest cabin products, including its latest 4-class Boeing 777 that feature a new 1-2-1 layout of lie-flat seats with personal minibars in Business Class, and the popular Emirates Premium Economy.

The first retrofitted Emirates 777 was deployed to Geneva in August, followed by Tokyo Haneda and Brussels. For the next six months, as more aircraft are retrofitted, Emirates has lined up 10 more routes for its refurbished 777s: Riyadh, Zurich, Kuwait, Damman, Chicago, Boston, Dallas Fort Worth, Seattle, Newark-Athens and Miami-Bogota.

By year end, Emirates’ latest A380 and Boeing 777 inflight experiences including Premium Economy, will be available to customers on over 30 routes.

On ground, AED 44 million was invested to open new signature Emirates Lounges for premium customers in London Stansted and Jeddah airports, and refurbish the existing facility at Paris Charles De Gaulle. This is part of an ongoing multi-million dollar programme to enhance its network of owned Emirates Lounges. In July, Emirates opened a new concept travel store in Hong Kong, its first outside of the UAE, and it plans to launch more experiential stores around its network as part of its retail strategy.

Emirates continued to progress on its environmental initiatives, uplifting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) where available and feasible. During the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates uplifted SAF for the first time in Singapore and London Heathrow.  

Emirates joined the Aviation Initiative for Renewable Energy (aireg) in Germany; and signed up as industry partner of the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) at the University of Cambridge, contributing to the research and development of emissions reduction pathways. The AIA partnership also marked Emirates’ first disbursement from its US$ 200 million fund, specifically set aside to support R&D to advance sustainability solutions for aviation.

In the first half of 2024-25, Emirates boosted investments in its global brand visibility notably signing a significant new sponsorship deal to be Official Airline Partner of The Championships – Wimbledon. Emirates also extended its longstanding partnerships with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for a further 8 years, and with Portugal’s SL Benfica football club for another 5 years.

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 5% to 29.9 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to expanded flight operations. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 4%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 2% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 80.0%, compared with 81.5% during the same period last year. Emirates carried 26.9 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2024, up 3% from the same period last year.

Emirates SkyCargo transported 1,198,000 tonnes in the first six months of the year, up 16% compared to the same period last year, with notable volume contributions from strong Chinese eCommerce traffic, and a rise in shipments bound for Dubai. 

Emirates SkyCargo was able to meet demand with added capacity from 1 new Boeing 777 freighter delivered, and 2 additional wet-leased Boeing 747Fs.  During the first six months of 2024-25, Emirates placed orders for 10 additional Boeing 777 freighters to support its growth.

Strong customer demand for Emirates SkyCargo’s specialised products and excellent network of freighter and bellyhold cargo operations saw cargo yields increase by 11%.

Emirates profit before tax for the first half of 2024-25 hit a new record of AED 9.7 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), compared to AED 9.5 billion (US$ 2.6 billion) for the same period last year. Emirates profit after tax is AED 8.7 billion (US$ 2.4 billion).

Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 62.2 billion (US$ 16.9 billion) was up 5% compared with AED 59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion) for the same period last year. The airline’s new record revenue can be attributed to consistently strong travel and air cargo demand across markets, and its ability to offer customers great value and services.

Emirates’ direct operating costs (including fuel) grew by 6% in line with increased operations. Fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost (32%), compared to 34% in the same period last year.

Driven by customer demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA of AED 19.1 billion (US$ 5.2 billion) remained very strong, although slightly down by 2% compared to AED 19.5 billion (US$ 5.3 billion) for the same period last year.

[1] The UAE corporate tax applies to the Emirates Group from its 2024-25 financial year. Hence, PAT figures for September 2024 and September 2023 are not directly comparable.

Alex Doisneau, Managing Director, dnata UK Airport Operations, who accepted the award on behalf of dnata globally, said: “We are incredibly proud to have won this prestigious, global award for the 10th successive year. This recognition reflects our consistent focus on delivering world-class quality and safety, and our ongoing investment in innovation and sustainability. Thank you to our team for their hard work and our customers for their continued trust in our services.” 

Over the past year, dnata continued to invest in the latest technologies to enhance its offering across its global network. It successfully integrated autonomous drones into its operations in the UAE, implemented AI-powered solutions in Singapore and continued to roll out One Cargo, its advanced cargo management system, globally to further enhance its cargo handling operations and capabilities. Meanwhile, construction of dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, one of the world’s largest and most advanced facilities of its kind, continued in The Netherlands.

dnata has also continued efforts to enhance environmental efficiency globally. As a result of its consistent investment in renewable energy, electric equipment and process improvement, the company’s carbon intensity measured in kilograms of CO₂ equivalent emissions per aircraft turnaround reduced by over 8% for its ground handling and cargo businesses in the recently ended financial year*. 

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 778,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 123 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.4 billion.

*Financial year 2023-24, ended on 31 March 2024. dnata’s environmental data has been externally verified by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

The study, compiled by global research firm Oxford Economics, includes an assessment of direct economic activity generated by the aviation sector, indirect activity generated through the sector’s supply chain, and induced activity supported through wage-funded consumption by the local aviation workforce. The study also assesses the catalytic impact of tourism spending facilitated by the aviation sector in Dubai.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and Chairman of Dubai Airports said: “Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s aviation sector has been a core pillar of our city’s economic growth strategy to date, and it will continue to play a key role in the D33 Economic Agenda.

“Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for trade, investments, tourism, and is a leading player in aviation and logistics. Our ambitious plans for Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International airport, and our ongoing investments to expand capacity at Dubai International, will unlock further economic opportunities by supporting the projected demand for air transport. Our growth plans will generate even more skilled jobs, and also help drive innovation as we work with leading technology partners to develop future solutions to enhance travel experiences and make operations more efficient and secure.”  

Aviation sector’s contribution to Dubai economy

In 2023, Dubai’s aviation sector, consisting of Emirates Group, Dubai Airports (including Dubai International and Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum airports), and other aviation sector entities¹ are estimated to have supported AED 137 billion (USD 37.3 billion) in gross value added² (GVA), equivalent to 27% of Dubai’s GDP.  This included the core economic impact of AED 94 billion, and AED 43 billion from the catalytic impact of aviation-facilitated tourism. These figures are projected to increase steadily, with aviation activities facilitated by Emirates and Dubai Airports contributing AED 196 billion, or 32% of Dubai’s forecasted GDP by 2030 (in 2023 prices).

Aviation-led activity also accounted for 631,000 jobs across Dubai, equivalent to one in five jobs in the emirate in 2023. A further 185,000 aviation-linked jobs are expected to be created by 2030, with the total number of jobs supported by Dubai’s aviation sector forecast to grow to 816,000 jobs.

A previous economic impact report released by Oxford Economics in 2014 found that the aviation sector contributed to 27% of Dubai’s GDP and supported 417,000 jobs. While the latest results indicate the share of Dubai’s GDP has remained stable, the sector’s gross value added has increased in real terms, with the current figures reflecting faster growth across other sectors, as well as diversification in the wider economy over the past decade.

Dubai’s vital investment to futureproof its aviation sector and ensure it remains an economic driver, is evident in ongoing major investments to expand capacity and operations at Dubai International, in addition to a new generation facility at Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International. The new AED 128 billion airport will be five times the size of Dubai International, with the first phase to be completed in 10 years. When fully completed, Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International will consist of over 400 aircraft stands, with capacity to serve 260 million passengers annually. The expansion of Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International is not included in the study’s main impact results³; however, the construction project is expected to contribute an estimated AED 6.1 billion to Dubai’s GDP in 2030, as well as support 132,000 jobs.

The new airport and surrounding infrastructure will contribute to Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to strengthen the emirate’s trade and tourism footprint. D33’s progressive development plans also seek to make Dubai one of the most connected cities by adding 400 destinations to its foreign trade map, in addition to making it one of the top five logistics hubs in the world.

Aviation and tourism in Dubai

Aviation is also the driving force behind the growth of international tourism to Dubai. As one of the most frequented destinations in the world, visitors stayed an average of 3.8 nights in 2023⁴, spending an average of AED 4,300⁴ on hotels, restaurants, attractions and shopping. According to the report, international visitors flying to Dubai spent an estimated AED 66 billion last year.

In total, aviation-facilitated tourism spending is estimated to have contributed: AED 43 billion in gross value added, or 8.5% of Dubai’s GDP, supporting 329,000 jobs. More than half of GVA, AED 23 billion, was generated by those flying to Dubai with Emirates. Tourism to Dubai is projected to grow significantly over the next six years, with aviation-facilitated tourism spending expected to support AED 63 billion in gross value added, equivalent to 10% of Dubai’s projected GDP, as well as one in eight Dubai jobs.

The full Oxford Economics report ‘The Economic Impact of Aviation In Dubai’, can be found here

_{¹ Other aviation entities include flydubai, Dubai Duty Free, Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), Dubai Police, Dubai Customs, Dubai Immigration, Dubai Air Navigation Services, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), and Dubai Aviation City Corporation.}

_{²Gross Value Added (GVA) is defined as the sum of compensation of employees and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA). It is also equal to revenue minus the cost of bought in goods and services used up to produce that revenue. Summed across all firms in an economy, and after small adjustments for taxes and subsidies, GVA is equal to GDP.}

_{³The Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) expansion announced in April 2024 is not included in the impact forecast. The DWC expansion would contribute an estimated AED 6.1 billion in gross value added to the economy in 2030, equivalent to 1.0% of Dubai’s forecasted GDP; and generate 132,000 jobs, equivalent to 3.7% of Dubai's employment in that year.}

_{^⁴ Based on Dubai Tourism 2023 Performance Report (link)}

This strategic move is projected to reduce the carbon footprint of dnata’s HGV’s fleet by 77%, cutting carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions by over 2,400 tonnes annually. This is comparable to the greenhouse gas emissions from over 530 average petrol-powered passenger vehicles for 12 months.

The initiative is part of the dnata Group’s continued efforts to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030 in line with its eight-year strategy.

Alex Doisneau, Managing Director of dnata UK, said: “We are committed to implementing meaningful initiatives to maximise environmental efficiency. The introduction of biofuel, such as HVO, into our UK operations is another important step in our ongoing journey to reduce our carbon footprint.

“We will continue to invest in infrastructure and equipment to contribute to dnata’s global sustainability targets.”

Continued investment in renewable energy

dnata’s most recent initiative follows significant investment in advanced infrastructure in the UK. Its new, advanced cargo centres in Manchester (dnata City North) and London (dnata City East) both incorporate the latest carbon reduction initiatives in design and operation, including the use of solar PV panels, air-source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging.

Reducing emissions with alternative fuel options

Besides the UK, dnata currently utilises biofuel in Australia, The Netherlands and the UAE, while continually exploring opportunities to introduce it in further countries across its network. In the UAE, it has recently transitioned its entire non-electric fleet to biodiesel at the two Dubai airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC).

In the financial year 2023-24, dnata reduced CO₂e emissions by 2,200 tonnes by using over 1.3 million litres of biofuels globally.

Converting GSE fleet

dnata’s fleet strategy commits to phasing out diesel-operated engines and switching to hybrid, electric, or hydrogen wherever airports have provided the necessary infrastructure. As a result of its investments in recent years, 65% of dnata’s fleet is now electric in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland.

Significant improvement across key environmental performance metrics globally

dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

dnata: a leading global air services provider

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 778,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 123 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.4 billion.

This significant step, taken in partnership with Dubai Airports and the Emirates National Oil Company Group (ENOC), is projected to cut CO₂ equivalent emissions by over 3,500 tonnes annually over the lifecycle of the fuel consumed by dnata’s fleet. This is equivalent to over 21 million kilometres driven by an average diesel-powered car.

The initiative has been gradually rolled out across dnata’s extensive ground handling and cargo operations at the two Dubai airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum - Dubai World Central (DWC). It involves a total of 2,500 vehicles, which support the safe and timely operations of over 220,000 flights annually.  

dnata has been already using a blend of biodiesel across its landside fleets at dnata logistics, City Sightseeing Tours, Arabian Adventures, and Alpha Flight Services in the UAE since last summer.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, 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.

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. We look forward to continuing our partnership to further reduce our environmental footprint and make a positive impact on the aviation industry.” 

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “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.

This shift will benefit all operators of vehicles and equipment operating airside by replacing traditional diesel with a cleaner alternative. Given the significant size of dnata’s fleet both at DXB and DWC, we know this project is vital for a broader sustainable ground support equipment (GSE) strategy, and we're proud to contribute to reducing dnata’s emissions and setting a new standard for the aviation industry.”

ENOC Group has provided dedicated biofuel trucks and fuel stations to support dnata’s transition into biodiesel in Dubai.

His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group CEO at ENOC, said, “We are delighted to continue our ongoing cooperation with dnata by delivering biodiesel to their airside fleet and ground support equipment (GSE). This partnership underscores ENOC Group’s commitment to expedite the UAE’s transition to clean and sustainable energy sources under the National Policy on Biofuels. We look forward to enabling clean energy alternatives to further diversify the national energy mix.”

dnata: a key contributor to the UAE’s aviation industry

Since its foundation in 1959, dnata has been playing an important role in the UAE’s aviation industry. Having mirrored Dubai’s growth, the dnata Group presently employs over 23,000 staff and serves over 190 passenger and cargo airlines across the country. Besides its range of air services, dnata operates all airside fuel stations and mobile refuelling services at both Dubai airports.

Significant improvement across dnata’s global businesses

dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.

Reducing emissions through investment in infrastructure, fleet and technologies

dnata minimises emissions across its businesses using renewable energy where available, and in some markets, such as the UK and Ireland, it exclusively procures solar and wind energy. Most recently, it has installed solar panels in Pakistan and the Philippines to avoid consuming fossil-fuel powered electricity across several facilities. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata generated 21% more renewable energy and purchased 191% more renewable electricity, than in the same period the previous year.

dnata consistently invests in its modern fleet to improve environmental efficiency. Its fleet strategy commits to phasing out diesel-operated engines and switching to hybrid, electric, or hydrogen wherever airports have provided the necessary infrastructure. As a result of its investments in recent years, 65% of dnata’s fleet is now electric in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland.

dnata also maintains a strong focus on minimising fuel consumption. It monitors the consumption of fuel across its fleet of ground support equipment (GSE) using Vehicle Tracking Management systems; conducts logistics mapping exercises to ensure minimal distances are travelled airside; and optimises shifts and parking slots to avoid excessive fuel burn.

In addition, it tracks the behaviour of drivers, including vehicle idling times, and has key performance indicators linked to the environmental management system. dnata promotes more responsible driver behaviour through education, awareness and training.

IATA’s IEnvA Certification

In September 2023, dnata became the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association’ (IATA) environmental management certification as a recognition of its unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 778,000 aircraft turns, moved 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 123 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.4 billion. For more information, visit dnata.com.

About Dubai Airports

• Dubai Airports operates both of Dubai’s airports, Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC).
• As an integrator, Dubai Airports works to balance the interests of all stakeholders to maintain aviation growth, protect operational resilience and ensure that service providers collaborate to provide a safe and secure service and improve customer experience whilst maintaining a sustainable business.
• DXB surpassed the 2019 levels of traffic in 2023 by welcoming 87m guests and forecast to reach 92m guests in 2024.
•  DXB is ranked as the world’s number one airport by international passenger numbers for 2023, as announced by the Airports Council International (ACI).
• DWC embodies Dubai's vision for the future of aviation. With expansion plans announced in May 2024, involving a record investment of US$35b, DWC aims to reshape the aviation landscape.
•  Over the next decade, DWC will accommodate 150m passengers annually, eventually expanding to 260m passengers and 12m tonnes of cargo.
• With five runways, futuristic design and seamless intermodal connectivity, DWC aims to revolutionise global air travel, setting new standards for efficiency and passenger experience for the next 50 years.
• High-resolution images of DXB are available here: Media Library
•  For recent updates, refer to our official social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter or hashtags: #DubaiAirports #DXB #DubaiWorldCentral.

About ENOC Group

ENOC Group is a leading integrated global energy player and a wholly owned entity of the Government of Dubai that is integral to the Emirate’s success. ENOC owns and operates assets in the fields of exploration & production, supply & operations, terminals, fuel retail, aviation fuel and petroleum products for commercial & industrial use. The Group’s general business operations include automotive services, non-fuel F&B retail and fabrication services. Servicing thousands of customers in over 60 markets, the Group employs a multi-national workforce of over 12,500 employees and is deploying its world-class customer service, latest innovations, and technologies as well as best practices to empower the UAE’s social and economic development. For further information, please visit: www.enoc.com.

The Animal Care & Inspection Centre (ACIC), a leading 2000m² facility, is dedicated to the safe handling of live animals at BRU. The facility was awarded the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) for its industry-leading live animal handling processes, in 2022.

Stef van Binst, Managing Director, dnata Belgium, said: “We are proud to provide globally recognised, safe and reliable live animal handling services at Brussels, consistently delivering best-in-class services to our customers and owners who are naturally anxious of their pet’s wellbeing while travelling. In close cooperation with our partners and authorities, we will continue to invest in our operations and world-class facilities to ensure travel comfort for our animal guests.”

Pet welfare is top priority
As household pets arrive into the ACIC for export six to eight hours ahead of planned departure, dnata’s team of handlers begin preparations for the animal’s safe transportation. Highly trained professionals meticulously review paperwork, including proof of any required vaccinations based on the destination and animal type, before completing an IATA check list and performing all security checks. The pet will then be invited into the comfortable ACIC stays with adjustable temperature and light controls to ensure its comfort. Dogs will be regularly walked throughout their time in the special export garden, including immediately before departure to the aircraft. Cats will provided with a litter box in their stay while awaiting departure. A vet will be on hand if any animal shows symptoms of distress, and members of the team remain with the pets until loading into the aircraft is complete.

Importance of thorough training
dnata’s top animal handling team is highly trained to ensure the comfort and safety of all animals, including domestic pets. All staff are fully educated and updated in IATA’s Live Animals Regulations (LAR), the essential standard to transport animals in a safe and humane manner, and which is applied to all shipments.

Along with permits to drive various airside vehicles, staff are trained to build up crates or boxes for larger animals, depending on the type of aircraft and the airline customer’s requirements.

Complying with regulations
Working alongside Brussels Airport and the local Federal Agency for Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), dnata’s team diligently follows all regulations including implementing the two-hour transit time limit between ACIC and aircraft to ensure imported pets remain calm and comfortable.

Most popular jet setting pets
Dogs are predictably the most popular pet to be handled at dnata’s ACIC facility, with over 1000 canines safely passing through in 2023-24, more than half of which were police dogs heading overseas. Pet fish are also very popular visitors, with over 4000 boxes of differing species imported. Tarantula spiders and various reptiles including lizards, snakes, and ghekkos are also delicately handled.

dnata currently provides service excellence at Brussels Airport with a team of 140 highly trained aviation professionals, handling over 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 778,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 123 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 2.4 billion

As a result of its consistent investments in renewable infrastructure, equipment, training and alternative fuel options, the company achieved significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics in the recently ended financial year. 

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “It’s encouraging to see the tangible impact of our global investments and initiatives on our environmental performance.

“While we keep a laser focus on sustainability in every decision we make, we recognise that achieving meaningful results requires a collective effort and flexible approach from multiple stakeholders. In some cases, the availability of alternative fuels such as electric and biofuels is moving slower than we would like. We will continue to actively engage with our partners to explore and implement practical solutions that enable us to replace energy sources with lower carbon alternatives and minimise waste sent to landfills.”

Significant improvements across key performance metrics

dnata’s ground handling, cargo, travel, and catering & retail businesses measure direct and indirect emissions related to the number of flight turnarounds and revenue to enable comparison and year-on-year improvement.

In the financial year 2023-24*, dnata’s environmental data has been externally verified by Verifavia.  dnata’s carbon intensity measured in kilograms of CO₂ equivalent emissions per aircraft turnaround has reduced by 8.4%** for its ground handling and cargo businesses. Meanwhile, its carbon intensity measured in grams of CO₂ equivalent emissions compared to revenue for catering and travel businesses has reduced by 26.3%** and 22.5%**, respectively. 

Furthermore, the company diverted 65%** of waste from landfill across its operations globally. 

Investing in renewable energy

dnata minimises emissions across its businesses using renewable energy where available, and in some markets, such as the UK and Ireland, it exclusively procures solar and wind energy. Most recently, it has installed solar panels across several facilities in Pakistan and the Philippines to avoid consuming fossil-fuel powered electricity. 

Transforming fleet

dnata also consistently invests in its modern fleet to improve environmental efficiency. Its fleet strategy commits to phasing out diesel-operated engines and switching to hybrid, electric, or hydrogen wherever airports have provided the necessary infrastructure. As a result of its investments in recent years, 65% of dnata’s fleet is now electric in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland.

Minimising fuel consumption with the latest technologies and training

dnata maintains a strong focus on minimising fuel consumption. It monitors the consumption of fuel across its fleet of ground support equipment (GSE) using Vehicle Tracking Management systems; conducts logistics mapping exercises to ensure minimal distances are travelled airside; and optimises shifts and parking slots to avoid excessive fuel burn.

In addition, it tracks the behaviour of drivers, including idling times, and has key performance indicators linked to the environmental management system. dnata promotes more responsible driver behaviour through education, awareness and training.

Engaging with alternative fuel suppliers

dnata actively engages with biofuel suppliers to reduce emissions. Several of dnata’s businesses have already deployed low carbon alternatives to replace diesel: in Schiphol airport, it has replaced over 674,000 litres with hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO100) in the previous financial year.

Besides, the company now uses a blend of biofuel across its landside fleets in dnata logistics, City Sightseeing Tours, Arabian Adventures, and Alpha Flight Services in the UAE. This transition to biofuel has contributed to emissions reductions of about 2,200 tonnes of CO₂ over the lifecycle of the fuel.

Reducing waste to landfill

dnata actively minimises waste across its operations through consistent initiatives. Its catering & retail teams are working closely with many of its airline customers to analyse consumption trends and use predictive data to optimise the loading of F&B for in-flight catering. Analysis of on-board data not only reduces food waste but also fuel burn associated with carrying excess weight.

dnata has also taken further initiatives across its business units to recycle materials. Its cargo businesses have implemented circular economy principles to repurpose plastics into materials for other industries. Meanwhile, several of its catering businesses eliminated single-use plastics across their operations.

IATA’s IEnvA Certification

In September 2023, dnata became the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association’ (IATA) environmental management certification as a recognition of its unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).  

* The financial year 2023-24 started on 1 April 2023 and ended on 31 March 2024.

**In the financial year 2023-24, compared to the financial year 2022-23 (ended on 31 March 2023). For more information, visit: Emirates Group Annual Report 2023-24.

Having signed a lease agreement with the airport authority, the company is planning to operate its new 9,500m² advanced warehouse facility as the sole occupant. Construction of the facility has already begun and is scheduled to be completed by 2027.

The new ‘Rächtenwisen’ warehouse will provide 20 docking ramps for trucks, and separate areas for the handling of import and export processes, as well as hazardous goods. It will also include temperature-controlled areas for sensitive products such as pharmaceuticals and other perishable items.

In line with dnata’s group target of reducing its global carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, the airport also plans to install solar PV panels to the roof of the landside building.

Wily Ruf, Managing Director, dnata Switzerland, said: “We are delighted to have secured this new facility in partnership with Zürich Airport. Our cargo business continues to grow, and this warehouse will ensure that we go beyond the demands of our customers, providing them with our best-in-class ground and cargo handling services. We will continue to invest in people, infrastructure and equipment to take our business to the next level in Switzerland.”

dnata currently operates at two Swiss airports, ZRH and Geneva Airport (GVA), providing a range of ground handling and cargo services to more than 30 airlines with 1,100 customer-oriented employees. 

The company has recently rolled out its advanced ‘OneCargo’ across system its cargo operations in Switzerland. OneCargo automates key business and operational functions, including safety and quality monitoring, reporting and ULD management, with an integrated, cloud-based platform. AI-driven tools and analytics provide enhanced visibility on sales and business performance, allowing customers to match real-time demand with available capacity for maximum profitability. In addition, OneCargo eliminates all redundancies and manual check sheets, substantially improving operational efficiency.

In recent years, dnata has also significantly invested in advanced equipment, including “green” ground support equipment (GSE) in Switzerland. Its recent investments include five new hybrid de-icing trucks, which increased the number of electric GSE in its Swiss fleet to 35%. The company has further plans to significantly invest in electric equipment, with a target of operating an 80% “green” fleet by 2030. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s team assisted a total of seven million passengers and moved over 60,000 tonnes of cargo in Geneva and Zürich.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. It offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents.

Both Emirates and dnata saw significant profit and revenue increases in 2023-24, as the Group expanded its operations around the world to meet strong customer demand for its high-quality products and services.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2024, the Emirates Group posted a record profit of AED 18.7 billion (US$ 5.1 billion), up 71% compared with an AED 10.9 billion (US$ 3.0 billion) profit for last year. The Group’s revenue was AED 137.3 billion (US$ 37.4 billion), an increase of 15% over last year’s results. The Group’s cash balance was AED 47.1 billion (US$ 12.8 billion), the highest ever reported, up 11% from last year.  

Combined Group profits for the last 2 years, at AED 29.6 billion, surpass pandemic losses of AED 25.9 billion during 2020-2022.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group said: “The Emirates Group has once again raised the bar to deliver a new record performance. Throughout the year, we saw high demand for air transport and travel related services around the world, and because we were able to move quickly to deliver what customers want, we achieved tremendous results. We are reaping the benefit of years of non-stop investments in our products and services, in building strong partnerships, and in the capabilities of our talented people.

“Huge credit is also due to the UAE’s visionary leaders, especially HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is thanks to their leadership and the nation’s progressive policies that the Emirates Group is able to flourish. Both Emirates and dnata have forged successful business models leveraging Dubai’s unique advantages, in turn generating enormous value for Dubai and the communities they serve around the world.” 

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “The Group’s excellent financial standing today places us in a strong position for future growth and success. It enables us to invest to deliver even better products, services, and more value to our customers and stakeholders.” 

Many major projects are already underway, including: a multibillion-dollar aircraft fleet and cabin renewal programme; new catering, cargo, and ground handling capabilities; advanced technologies to support the Group’s operations; expanded training and people development programmes; and initiatives to progress the Group’s sustainability agenda.

In 2023-24, the Group collectively invested AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and the latest technologies to support its growth plans.

The Group’s total workforce grew by 10% to 112,406 employees, its largest size ever, as Emirates and dnata continued recruitment activity around the world to support its expanding operations and bolster its future capabilities.

The Group took significant strides in its sustainability journey during 2023-24, putting into action numerous initiatives focussed on the environment, its people, customers, and communities.

Environmental topics were high on the agenda during the year, as the UAE hosted the world’s biggest conference for climate action, COP28, in Dubai.

In 2023-24, Emirates signed new supply agreements to uplift sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at its Dubai hub for the very first time, and also in Amsterdam and Singapore. The airline operated the first A380 demonstration flight using 100% SAF in one engine, collecting data to support industry efforts to enable a future of 100% SAF flying.

Recognising that airlines today have the limited viable solutions to meaningfully reduce carbon emissions, Emirates established a US$ 200 million fund to support R&D projects that focus on reducing the impact of fossil fuels in commercial aviation. It also became a founding entity of Air-CRAFT, a UAE-based research consortium for renewable and advanced aviation fuels; and joined The Solent Cluster, a UK initiative focused on producing low-carbon fuels for a variety of sectors, including aviation.

dnata continued to invest and induct more electric and hybrid vehicles to its global fleet of ground support equipment (GSE), adding new baggage tractors, cargo loaders, and pushback tractors to its USA operations. It also converted and refurbished diesel-powered GSEs in Italy to run on Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil and electric power. dnata’s UAE businesses including dnata logistics, Arabian Adventures, Alpha Flight Services and City Sightseeing Worldwide, transitioned to biofuel for its landside fleet of vehicles.

During the year, dnata became the first combined air services provider to receive the International Air Transport Association’s environmental management (IEnvA) certification for its commitment to sustainability across its UAE businesses; and Emirates achieved IEnvA Stage One and the IEnvA Illegal Wildlife Trade module certifications, for its efforts in environmental stewardship and anti-wildlife trafficking.

The Group ramped up investments in people development, rolling out a comprehensive programme of learning and training options for its workforce in partnership with top universities and key industry partners. A Gender Balance Council was established to champion and promote gender equality within the Group.

The Emirates Group has expanded its ESG reporting in its latest 2023-24 report and are adopting aspects of the GRI standards. It plans to evolve its reporting to meet ISSB and CSRD requirements in the coming years[1].

Sheikh Ahmed said: “We enter our 2024-25 financial year on strong foundations for continued growth. Emirates will receive delivery of 10 new A350 aircraft in 2024-25, adding to our fleet mix and supporting the next phase of its network growth. dnata will continue to leverage synergies and scale across its business divisions to grow its footprint and capabilities. In tandem, we are investing resources to minimise our environmental impact, develop our people, look after our customers and the communities we serve.”

“The business outlook is positive, and we expect customer demand for air transport and travel to remain strong in the coming months. As always, we will keep a close watch on costs and external factors such as oil prices, currency fluctuations, and volatile environments caused by socio-political changes. Our business model has been tested before, and I am confident in our resilience and ability to respond quickly to opportunities and challenges.”

He added: “Looking further ahead, the Dubai government has announced plans to start the next phase of expansion at Al Maktoum International Airport, which will eventually be the new hub for Emirates and dnata’s operations. This AED 128 billion (US$ 35 billion) investment will significantly expand and enhance Dubai’s aviation and logistics infrastructure, supporting the city’s growth, and Emirates’ and dnata’s growth.

dnata performance

dnata increased its profit by 330% to AED 1.4 billion (US$ 387 million) in 2023-24, reporting solid results across its business divisions.

dnata's total revenue increased by 29% to hit a new record of AED 19.2 billion (US$ 5.2 billion), driven by increased flight and travel activity across the world. dnata’s international businesses account for 75% of its revenue, an increase of 3%pts from the previous year. Through the year, dnata won new customer contracts across its divisions, and worked closely with its customers to support increased flight activity and travel demand especially in its major markets: Australia, Europe, the UAE, UK, and US.  

Laying the foundations for future growth, dnata’s investments in 2023-24 amounted to AED 464 million (US$ 126 million). Significant investments during the year included: new electric and hybrid ground support equipment for its airport operations as part of its environmental strategy, and the expansion of marhaba operations in the Philippines, Italy, and the UAE.

In 2023-24, dnata’s operating costs increased by 22% to AED 17.8 billion (US$ 4.8 billion), in line with expanded operations in its Airport Operations, Catering & Retail, and Travel divisions, as well as continued inflationary pressure across all markets mainly for labour and food supply.

dnata’s cash balance declined by AED 958 million to AED 4.2 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), primarily due to AED 2 billion (US$ 545 million) in dividend payments to its owner, ICD, plus the funding of investments and debt repayments. The business saw a positive operating cash flow of AED 1.9 billion (US$ 507 million) in 2023-24, a reflection of the substantial improvements in revenue.

Revenue from dnata’s Airport Operations, including ground and cargo handling increased to AED 8.8 billion (US$ 2.4 billion).

The number of aircraft turns handled by dnata globally grew by 9% to 778,026; and cargo handled increased by 5% to 2.9 million tonnes, reflecting new contracts won, and increased flight activity by dnata’s airline customers across markets.

During 2023-24, dnata continued to invest in infrastructure and the latest technologies to respond to customer needs.  It integrated autonomous drones into its UAE operations, implemented AI-powered solutions in Singapore, and continued to roll out One Cargo, its advanced cargo management system globally. dnata also announced it will expand operations into Rome Fiumicino Airport where its majority-owned subsidiary, Airport Handling, won a seven-year ground handling license. To support this new operation, dnata will invest €20 million in new and advanced ground equipment.

dnata’s Catering & Retail business accounted for AED 6.5 billion (US$ 1.8 billion) of dnata’s revenue, up by 35%. The inflight catering business uplifted 123.0 million meals to airline customers, a 10% increase from last year, as its airline customers across the world restored and expanded their flight operations.

The division expanded its customer base in key markets with notable contract wins in 2023-24 including from: Sri Lankan Airlines and Turkish Airlines in Australia (Sydney and Melbourne), China Airlines in the Czech Republic (Prague), JetBlue in Ireland (Dublin), Biman Bangladeshi Airlines in Italy (Rome Fiumicino), Royal Jordanian in the UK (London Stansted), and Etihad Airways in the US (Boston). It also extended its airport retail network with new F&B outlets at Romania’s Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport, and Sharjah Airport in the UAE.

Revenue from dnata’s Travel Services division grew by 48% to AED 3.5 billion (US$ 951 million), with strong contributions from Destination Asia, its destination management business in Asia, and Imagine Cruising, a cruise holidays business in which dnata has acquired a majority stake.  Total transaction value (TTV) of travel services sold increased by 27% to AED 8.9 billion (US$ 2.4 billion), reflecting the division’s ability to deliver relevant products to meet strong demand across B2B and B2C travel segments globally.

In 2023-24, dnata’s travel division forged agreements with new tourism entities, hospitality brands, and other partners to expand its portfolio of travel products, services, and solutions. This includes a strategic partnership with AMEX GBT which doubled the size of its corporate travel business in the Middle East.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity increased by 20% to 57.7 billion ATKMs in 2023-24, recovering to near pre-pandemic levels.

Providing customers with more connection options, Emirates restarted services to Tokyo Haneda, added capacity to 29 destinations, and launched new daily flights to Montreal, Canada. Emirates also inked codeshare and interline agreements with 11 new airline partners, further extending its network’s reach. By 31 March 2024, the Emirates network comprised 151 destinations across six continents, including 10 cities served by its freighter fleet only. 

Emirates brought its flagship A380 and popular Premium Economy product to even more cities this year, as 16 more aircraft rolled out of its US$ 2 billion cabin retrofit programme, fully refurbished with the airline’s latest signature products. As of 31 March 2024, the Emirates A380 served 49 destinations, and customers could enjoy Emirates’ Premium Economy experience to and from 15 cities around the world.

Total fleet count at the end of March was 260 units, with an average fleet age of 10.1 years. 

Emirates’ order book stands at 310 aircraft, after it announced orders worth US$ 58 billion combined, for 110 additional units of Boeing 777s, 787s, and Airbus A350s at the 2023 Dubai Airshow. These new generation widebody aircraft will replace older jets and support fleet growth, aligning with the airline’s long-standing commitment to fly modern aircraft that are efficient to operate, and able to offer customers the latest inflight comforts and experiences.

With increased capacity deployment and strong demand across markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 13% to AED 121.2 billion (US$ 33.0 billion). Currency fluctuations and devaluations in some of the airline’s major markets, notably the Pakistani Rupee, Egyptian Pound, and Indian Rupee, negatively impacted the airline’s profitability by AED 2.0 billion (US$ 0.6 billion).

The airline saw an operating cash flow of AED 37.6 billion (US$ 10.3 billion) in 2023-24, underpinning its strong commercial results and enabling the airline to grow the business going forward.

Total operating costs increased by 8% from last financial year. Cost of ownership (depreciation and amortisation) and fuel cost were the airline’s two biggest cost components in 2023-24, followed by employee cost. Fuel accounted for 34% of operating costs compared to 36% in 2022-23. The airline’s fuel bill increased slightly to AED 34.2 billion (US$ 9.3 billion) compared to AED 33.7 billion (US$ 9.2 billion) the previous year, with a higher uplift of 24% due to increased flying being balanced by a lower average fuel price (down 18%) including hedging gains.

Driven by the voracious appetite for travel across customer segments, the strength of its global network, and the appeal of its products, the airline hit a new record profit of AED 17.2 billion (US$ 4.7 billion) exceeding last year’s AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion) result, with an exceptional profit margin of 14.2%, marking it the best performance in the airline’s history.

Emirates carried 51.9 million passengers (up 19%) in 2023-24, with seat capacity up by 21%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 79.9%, rising from 79.5% last year. Passenger yield declined 2% to 36.6 fils (10.0 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM), due to a change in cabin and route mix, fares and currency.  

Emirates continued to invest in delivering ever better customer experiences. During the year, it invested AED 30 million to uplift its dedicated Emirates Lounges with refreshed facilities reopening to serve premium customers and frequent flyers in Brisbane, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Manchester and Munich. Emirates restored its signature Chauffeur Drive service to 82 cities across its network and introduced this complimentary offering to premium customers in Indonesia, Morocco, and Turkey.

The airline also implemented a slew of inflight enhancements from menus and amenities to entertainment content, key amongst which, were the launch of complimentary loungewear and meal pre-ordering in Business Class.

Emirates SkyCargo reaffirmed its position in global air logistics and trade, carrying 2.2 million tonnes of goods around the world in 2023-24, up 18% from the previous year, as increased passenger operations expanded available cargo capacity, and the leasing of three 747 freighters during the year unlocked immediate capacity to serve demand on busy routes. This reflects the high customer demand for its specialist logistics solutions, the reach and connectivity of Emirates’ global network, Dubai’s world-class sea-air hub capabilities, and the fruits of Emirates SkyCargo’s ongoing investments in digital technology, infrastructure, and products.

Despite continued challenges in global logistics, the cargo division reported a solid revenue of AED 13.6 billion (US$ 3.7 billion), contributing 11% to the airline’s total revenue. Cargo yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) declined by 32%, returning to pre-pandemic marketplace levels.  

During the year, it launched Emirates Vital and Emirates Medical Devices, two purpose-built cargo solutions to serve the unique requirements of the life sciences and healthcare sector. It also launched Emirates Delivers in Kuwait to connect shoppers there with e-commerce brands in the UK, the US, and the UAE. Emirates Delivers is poised to scale significantly in the coming years, focussing on markets underserved by business-to-consumer delivery solutions.

At the end of 2023-24, Emirates’ SkyCargo’s total freighter fleet stood at 11 Boeing 777Fs. The cargo division expects delivery of its 5 additional Boeing 777Fs on order from mid-2024.

Under Emirates Group companies and subsidiaries, Emirates Flight Catering and MMI/Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) reported notable results in 2023-24.

Emirates Flight Catering hit record revenues of AED 970 million (US$ 264 million) from its external customers, driven by traffic growth at Dubai’s airports. It supplied 76.9 million meals to airline customers, 19% more than the previous year, and saw rising demand for its other ancillary businesses including at Linencraft, its laundry facility which primarily serves airline and hospitality clients.

MMI/ELR revenue surged 18% to AED 2.9 billion (US$ 796 million), as it expanded UAE operations to meet growing wholesale and retail demand driven by the booming tourism sector. ELR recorded record sales growth globally, with strong contributions from its key markets of the UAE, the US and Australia.

Emirates’ hotels portfolio revenue over last year decreased by 2% to AED 660 million (US$ 180 million), reflecting the temporary closure of its Wolgan Valley resort in Australia.   

With another year of strong performance, Emirates continued to meet all its regular aircraft-related payment obligations and repaid an additional AED 2.2 billion (US$ 596 million) from the AED 17.5 billion (US$ 4.8 billion) borrowed during the COVID-19 crisis. This substantially reduced its overall outstanding debt profile and places the airline on a strong foundation for financing for its future growth and the new fleet acquisition programme.

In response to the challenges posed by volatile fuel markets during the financial year, Emirates deployed simple forwards and options across different products such as brent and jet fuel to reduce current year costs as well as secure significant future hedging volumes. In addition, it largely mitigated the impact of the higher interest rate regime on the results with effective management of the net exposure. Emirates continued with its balanced approach to managing the foreign exchange rate risk through use of currency options, forward contracts, and natural hedges. The methodical approach allowed improved predictability of its cashflows against volatile market shifts, thereby enhancing financial stability.

Emirates closed the financial year with its highest-ever level of cash assets at AED 42.9 billion (US$ 11.7 billion), 15% higher compared to 31 March 2023.   

The full 2023-24 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

-ENDS-

US$ figures are converted at 1US$ = 3.67AED and are based on the AED figures rounded off in millions.

[1] Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) are internationally recognised standards for corporate reporting on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) data and initiatives.

In her role, Su Yin will oversee dnata’s ground handling and cargo operations at Changi Airport (SIN). She will manage a team of more than 1,500 employees, ensuring consistent high quality and safe services for over 50 airline customers. 

A Singapore national, Su Yin brings with her extensive experience in senior executive roles across the aviation and logistics industries with a proven track record of enhancing service quality and customer experience. Most recently, she was Chief Executive Officer, Singapore, Singapore Post Ltd, a leading postal and e-commerce logistics provider in Asia Pacific.  Prior to joining SingPost, Su Yin was General Manager at the Changi Airport Group (CAG), managing ground operations and customer experience within the terminals. Before CAG, Su Yin had a distinguished military career with the Republic of Singapore Navy.

Su Yin will report to Charles Galloway, dnata’s Regional CEO for Asia-Pacific. Her appointment is effective immediately.

Charles Galloway said: “We are delighted to welcome Su Yin to our APAC management team. With an impressive background in the logistics and aviation industries, she brings a wealth of experience and expertise to dnata Singapore. Her leadership will play a key role in driving our efforts to further enhance our reputation for excellence in the industry. We look forward to working closely with Su Yin to deliver the promises our customers make.”

A trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata operates at over 130 airports globally. In the Asia Pacific region dnata provides quality and safe ground handling, cargo and catering services in three countries, including Australia, Singapore and The Philippines.

This achievement underlines the company’s commitment to meeting rigorous safety standards and regulatory requirements in the handling of potentially hazardous materials.

dnata’s journey with IATA’s CEIV lithium battery programme began in April 2023. Less than 12 months later, it has become the first ground services provider to certify 11 of its worldwide stations, which all took part in a comprehensive audit process. The company’s stations in Australia and Pakistan were the first to complete the assessment phase, followed by Singapore, Belgium, the UK, and UAE. The IATA certification ceremony for these stations took place at the recent World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong.

dnata’s receipt of full accreditation provides its customers with a guarantee of quality and safety, ensuring consistency throughout its operations.

Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Senior Vice President, UAE Cargo and Global Cargo Strategy, said: “We are pleased to achieve IATA’s CEIV Lithium Battery accreditation, a testament to our commitment to safety and compliance. This recognition underscores our ongoing efforts to maintain the highest standards in the handling of dangerous goods, ensuring the safety of our operations and the satisfaction of our customers.”

Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, said: “The volume of air shipments containing lithium batteries is rising. Ensuring these items are transported safely and efficiently is a top priority for the industry. Key to this is complying with regulatory changes and the integration of best practices in lithium battery handling across the supply chain. This is why CEIV Lithium Batteries was established.

“We commend dnata for being the first Ground Handling Agent to achieve CEIV lithium battery certification across its network of 11 hubs. This accomplishment not only benefits dnata's customers by guaranteeing their shipments are handled with utmost efficiency and safety, but also sets a quality benchmark for the industry.”

In recent years, dnata has significantly invested in training and process improvement to further enhance safety and improve efficiency in the handling of dangerous goods. In 2021, it became the first global air services provider to adopt IATA’s Dangerous Goods Autocheck (DG Autocheck) platform for the acceptance of dangerous goods shipments. In December 2023, dnata was further accredited with IATA’s Corporate Certification for competency-based training and assessment (CBTA) for Dangerous Goods.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

dnata’s strategic initiative has significantly enhanced operational efficiencies, delivering remarkable benefits for airline customers at both Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) airports.  Key results include 20% reduction in processing times on the rack inventories and over 99% accuracy in shipment tracking.

With a strong commitment to innovation and excellence, dnata was the first cargo services provider to introduce drones to its cargo operations in the UAE in 2021. The drones have seamlessly integrated into the day-to-day workflow and warehouse inventory processes. On average, dnata’s drones monitor some 1,800 shipments daily with 99% accuracy across 2,400 rack locations.

The innovative software of dnata’s partner, Gather AI, enables the drones to map the environment, collect inventory data, count cases, measure temperature, and read barcodes using only their cameras, without the need for any additional active infrastructure. The drones are paired to a tablet device providing live inventory data. The collected data can be viewed directly on the tablet or the web dashboard, via a user-friendly application.

With routine tasks automated, human resources can be allocated to more complex responsibilities, ultimately improving overall workforce productivity. The use of drones has also contributed to a reduction in carbon footprint and improved safety by reducing the need for mobile elevating work platforms (also known as ‘cherry pickers’) and man lifts in the warehouse.  

The drones can operate at temperatures between 0 Celsius and +50 Celsius degrees within a closed environment, enabling dnata to take advantage of the technology in its state-of-the-art cool chain facilities, too.  dnata has plans to introduce them at further stations across its global cargo network in the next years.

Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Senior Vice President for UAE Cargo and Global Cargo Strategy, said: “We are thrilled to witness the outstanding results that our drone technology has brought to our cargo operations. The precision and reliability of these drones have surpassed our expectations, leading to a transformative impact on our efficiency levels. These advancements have a direct positive impact on our airline customers who can benefit from heightened accuracy, reduced turnaround times and smoother logistics operations. The launch of autonomous drones in our operations reflects our commitment to delivering top-notch services through the latest technologies."

Sankalp Arora, CEO & Co-founder of Gather AI, said:  "Gather AI and dnata have already turned the vision of a fully digitised air cargo ecosystem into a ground-breaking reality. Our autonomous inventory drones are not merely futuristic concepts; they are operational game-changers today, enabling real-time transparency into the inventory and air cargo processes. dnata has been at the forefront of the digital revolution in air cargo, and we at Gather AI are proud to be the technology partners that have made this vision come alive."

In recent years, dnata has significantly invested in cutting-edge technologies and digitalisation to further enhance efficiencies across its cargo operations. In addition to the launch of autonomous drones in its warehouses, key milestones include the rollout of its digital cargo management system, OneCargo.

OneCargo automates key business and operational functions, including safety and quality monitoring, reporting and ULD management, with an integrated, cloud-based platform. AI-driven tools and analytics provide enhanced visibility on sales and business performance, allowing customers to match real-time demand with available capacity for maximum profitability. In addition, OneCargo eliminates all redundancies and manual check sheets, substantially improving operational efficiency. To date, dnata has launched OneCargo in its operations in six countries, including Iraq, Pakistan, Switzerland, UAE, USA and Zanzibar (Tanzania) across its global network.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

Upon implementation, EASA’s Regulation will establish a more standardised environment, which will help enhance safety, operational delivery, cybersecurity, and consistency within the region.

Until now, the ground handling industry has largely operated under self-regulation, with operational arrangements, including safety considerations, primarily addressed in bilateral service agreements between ground handling service providers and the respective aircraft operators.

EASA’s Regulation is scheduled for publication in late 2024 or early 2025. The proposal includes a suggested three-year transition period for implementation post-publication. dnata anticipates a smooth transition, proactively aligning its practices with the forthcoming regulatory framework.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, company’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

The award was accepted by Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Senior Vice President, Airport Operations UAE and MEA, who has also been recognised as Aviation Executive of the Year.

In addition to the accolades, dnata has received commendations for its sustainability initiatives and training programme in Dubai.

Jaffar Dawood said: “We are honoured to receive Aviator Middle East’s prominent award for the 13th time. This recognition underscores our uncompromising focus on safety, commitment to sustainability and spirit of innovation. My appreciation goes out to our outstanding team, whose passion and hard work are at the core of this accomplishment.”

Over the past year, dnata has continued to enhance its operations through strategic investments globally. It established operations in Zanzibar, Tanzania and expanded its footprint in Canada through its partnership with the GTA Group, adding Calgary and Vancouver to its cargo network. In addition, it increased its investment in Air Dispatch to become the sole shareholder of the world’s leading provider of centralised load control services. 

dnata has also taken major infrastructure projects to the next level. In Erbil, it broke ground on a new cargo facility which will add significant expansion to its operations in Iraq. Meanwhile, construction of dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, one of the world’s largest and most advanced facilities of its kind, continued in The Netherlands.

dnata has also invested in cutting-edge technologies and digitalisation to further improve efficiencies across its operations. Key milestones include the continued global rollout of its advanced cargo management system, OneCargo, and the successful integration of autonomous drones into its cargo operations in Dubai, UAE.

dnata has continued efforts to optimise resources across its global network as part of its pledge to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. Previously, the company committed US$ 100 million to implement green technology and initiatives across its businesses to achieve its strategic objective. The company’s recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in infrastructure, green ground support solutions and process improvement.

As a recognition of its unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the UAE, dnata has recently received the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) environmental management certification (IEnvA).

Since its foundation in 1959, dnata has been playing an important role in the UAE’s aviation industry. Having mirrored Dubai’s growth, the dnata Group presently employs over 23,000 staff in the country, delivering world-class services to over 190 passenger and cargo airlines across the UAE.

Globally, dnata offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

The Aviator Middle East Awards, previously known as Aviation Business Middle East Awards, are organised by ITP Media Group, the publisher of The Aviator Middle East publication, to honour leadership, business excellence, and innovation across the regional aviation industry.

In his role, Willy will oversee dnata’s ground handling and cargo business and operations at Geneva Airport (GVA) and Zürich Airport (ZRH) in Switzerland. He will manage a team of 1,100 employees, ensuring world-class services and safety for over 30 airline customers. 

A Swiss national, Willy has over 30 years of international experience in the ground handling, cargo and travel industries. Most recently, he has been dnata’s Head of Operations in Geneva. Prior to joining dnata, he held various senior leadership roles at Wisag and Swissport across Europe.

Willy will report to Stewart Angus, dnata’s Regional CEO for Europe. His appointment is effective 1 January 2024. In his new role Willy will replace Roberto Feijoo Lopez, who decided to leave dnata to pursue another opportunity. 

Stewart Angus said: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Willy, who has demonstrated exceptional management skills and steadfast commitment to excellence as our operations leader in Geneva. As a respected and experienced leader in our industry, he is well-equipped to contribute significantly to our strategic objectives and strengthen dnata’s market presence in Switzerland.

He added: “I would genuinely like to thank Roberto for his important contribution to the success and development of dnata Switzerland over the past 16 years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours”.  

In recent years, dnata has significantly invested in infrastructure and equipment, including “green” ground support equipment (GSE), to deliver the highest level of quality and safety for its customers in Switzerland. dnata’s recent investments include five new hybrid de-icing trucks, which increased the number of electric GSE in its Swiss fleet to 35%.

dnata has also recently rolled out its advanced ‘OneCargo’ system across its cargo operations in Switzerland. OneCargo automates key business and operational functions, including safety and quality monitoring, reporting and ULD management, with an integrated, cloud-based platform. AI-driven tools and analytics provide enhanced visibility on sales and business performance, allowing customers to match real-time demand with available capacity for maximum profitability. In addition, OneCargo eliminates all redundancies and manual check sheets, substantially improving operational efficiency.

In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s team assisted a total of seven million passengers and moved over 60,000 tonnes of cargo in Geneva and Zürich.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. It offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents.

The achievement is a result of dnata’s consistent investment in people, training and process improvement across its airport operations businesses. The company’s recent initiatives include the launch of a dedicated dangerous goods working group. This global team conducted an 18-month wholesale review of how dnata assesses and delivers all dangerous goods training requirements, to comply with IATA’s framework approach. The solutions were implemented in January 2023, ensuring consistent quality and competency throughout dnata’s global operations.

dnata’s businesses underwent a formal and comprehensive audit process by IATA between March and August 2023, covering all aspects of its Training Management Systems and the delivery of the Dangerous Goods CBTA programme.

dnata’s participation in the programme provides a guarantee of quality to customers, while reducing additional auditing and training requirements and development costs.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are proud to continue to lead the way in the handling of dangerous goods across our operations. We persistently invest in our training programme and implement the latest global best practices to deliver the highest standards of safety and quality. We will continue to work closely with IATA and our partners to consistently provide best-in-class services to our customers and their customers.”

Frederic Leger, IATA Senior Vice President Commercial Products and Services, said: “The safe transport of dangerous goods is a priority for the industry, with training being a foundational element. We congratulate dnata on achieving IATA’s CBTA Center certification for Dangerous Goods across their entire network. This achievement underscores dnata’s dedication to upholding the highest standards in dangerous goods training and assessment. It also stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence. dnata’s customers can now have even more confidence, that their products are being handled with the utmost safety and expertise at every touchpoint."

In recent years, dnata has significantly invested in its operations to further enhance safety and improve efficiency in the handling of dangerous goods. In 2021, it became the first global air services provider to adopt IATA’s Dangerous Goods Autocheck (DG Autocheck) platform for the acceptance of dangerous goods shipments.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

dnata’s dedicated team will handle up to 6,000 tonnes of cargo annually for Maersk Air Freight, which currently operates weekly flights between Cologne and Greenville (GSP) in the USA with a Magma Boeing 747-400F aircraft.  The airline plans to increase weekly frequencies, significantly expanding cargo capacity on the route in the coming months. 

Stef van Binst, Managing Director, dnata Belgium and Germany, said: “We are proud that Maersk has chosen dnata as its trusted provider for safe, reliable and efficient cargo handling services. This significant contract win is a testament to our Cologne team’s hard work and unwavering commitment to service excellence. We look forward to a successful partnership with our newest customer in Germany.”

dnata entered the German cargo market through a strategic acquisition of the exclusive operator of the Cologne Bonn Cargo Centre, a 12,000 sqm facility at CGN, in 2022. dnata currently serves 20 airline customers with a team of some 100 highly-trained aviation and logistics professionals at the airport. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata handled nearly 60,000 tonnes of cargo in Cologne.

CGN is the third largest airport in Germany in terms of cargo operations with significant capacity for further growth. It operates 24 hours a day and is ideally located in the heart of Northwest Europe with excellent road connections. 

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

The Group also reported an EBITDA of AED 20.6 billion (US$ 5.6 billion), a significant improvement from AED 15.3 billion (US$ 4.2 billion) during the same period last year, illustrating its strong operating profitability.

Group revenue was AED 67.3 billion (US$ 18.3 billion) for the first six months of 2023-24, up 20% from AED 56.3 billion (US$ 15.3 billion) last year. This was driven by strong demand for air transport across the world, which has been on an upward trajectory since the last pandemic travel restrictions were lifted. 

The Group closed the first half year of 2023-24 with a solid cash position of AED 42.7 billion (US$ 11.6 billion) on 30 September 2023, compared to AED 42.5 billion (US$ 11.6 billion) on 31 March 2023. The Group has been able to tap on its own strong cash reserves to support business needs, including debt payments. So far, Emirates has repaid AED 9.2 billion of its COVID-19 related loans. The Group also paid AED 4.5 billion in dividend to its owner, as declared at the end of its 2022-23 financial year.

His Highness (HH) Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group said: “We are seeing the fruition of our plans to return stronger and better from the dark days of the pandemic. The Group has surpassed previous records to report our best-ever half-year performance. Our profit for the first six months of 2023-24 has nearly matched our record full year profit in 2022-23. This is a tremendous achievement that speaks to the talent and commitment within the organisation, the strength of our business model, and power of Dubai’s vision and policies that has enabled the creation of a strong, resilient, and progressive aviation sector.

“Across the Group, we’ve continued to ramp up operations safely and move nimbly to meet customer demand. We’ve implemented a series of service and product enhancements to win customer preference, and we’ll continue to invest in our people, products, partnerships, and technology to strengthen our capabilities and ensure we are future ready.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed added: “For the second half of 2023-24, we expect customer demand across our business divisions to remain healthy and we will stay agile in how we deploy our resources in this dynamic marketplace. At the same time, we are keeping a close watch on headwinds such as rising fuel prices, the strengthening US dollar, inflationary costs, and geo-politics.”

To support increased operations and business activities, the Emirates Group’s employee base, compared to 31 March 2023, grew 6% to an overall count of 108,996 on 30 September 2023. Both Emirates and dnata have ongoing recruitment drives to support their future requirements.

dnata

dnata continued to ramp up operations across its cargo and ground handling, catering and retail, and travel services businesses. This drove strong revenue growth in the first six months of 2023-24.

In the first half of 2023-24, dnata’s catering and airport services won significant new contracts and grew existing customers across its international operations. This shows dnata’s ability to serve the growing operations of airline customers, and deliver high quality products and services despite lingering operational challenges in many markets such as a shortage of skilled workforce, supply chain issues, and inflationary pressures.

dnata also continued to make strategic investments in its business and implement innovative technology and other initiatives to better respond to customer needs. Highlights in the first half of 2023-24 include: the acquisition of an additional 29% stake in Imagine Cruising, bringing to 81.4% its shareholding in UK’s leading cruise and stay holiday distributors; the implementation of AI-powered solutions to enhance dnata’s cargo handling operations and capabilities in Singapore; and the switch to a biofuel blend for road transport vehicles in the UAE used by dnata Logistics, Arabian Adventures, Alpha Flight Services, and City Sightseeing to reduce emissions and address rising customer expectations for transport options with lower environmental footprint.

dnata’s revenue, including other operating income, of AED 9.3 billion (US$ 2.5 billion) increased by 27% compared to AED 7.3 billion (US$ 2.0 billion) generated in the same period last year.

Overall profit for dnata is AED 709 million (US$ 193 million), compared to same period last year’s AED 236 million (US$ 64 million).

dnata’s airport operations remains the largest contributor to revenue with AED 4.1 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), an 18% increase compared to the same period last year, as its airline customers’ operations continued to pick up particularly in Australia, Singapore, UK, and the UAE.  Across its operations, the number of aircraft turns handled by dnata increased by 11% to 384,656, and it handled 1.3 million tonnes of cargo, down by 5% reflecting further softening of the global air freight market after a pandemic-driven surge.

dnata’s flight catering and retail operations, contributed AED 3.5 billion (US$ 942 million) to its revenue, up 45% with strong production increases in Australia, Italy, UK, and the US to meet customer demand. The number of meals uplifted increased by 31% to 66.3 million meals compared to last year’s 50.5 million meals.

dnata's travel division contributed AED 1.4 billion (US$ 375 million) to revenue, up 16% compared to AED 1.2 billion (US$ 323 million) for the same period last year. dnata saw strong contributions from Destination Asia, its destination management business in Asia; and from its cruise holidays business, Imagine Cruising, in which dnata has acquired controlling interest. The division reported an underlying total transactional value (TTV) sales of AED 4.0 billion (US$ 1.1 billion), compared to AED 3.5 billion (US$ 960 million) for the same period last year.

Emirates airline

Emirates continued to increase its global flight operations, adding capacity and connections through its Dubai hub to meet customer demand across markets. During the first half of 2023-24, the airline restored A380 operations to Bali, Beijing, Birmingham, Casablanca, Nice, Shanghai, and Taiwan.

In July, it launched daily non-stop services to Montreal, a new destination and the airline’s second gateway in Canada.

Expanding connectivity options for customers, Emirates entered and enhanced codeshare or interline agreements with 8 airlines in the first six months of 2023-24: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Etihad Airways, Kenya Airways, Philippine Airlines, Maldivian, Sri Lankan Airlines, and United Airlines. The codeshare partnership between Emirates and Qantas, which has seen over 15 million travellers benefit from joint flight itineraries since its establishment in 2013, received approvals for a further 5-year extension until 2027.

By 30 September, the airline was operating passenger and cargo services to 144 airports, utilising its entire Boeing 777 fleet and 104 A380s. During the first six months of 2023-24, 10 A380 aircraft rolled out of Emirates’ retrofit programme with completely refreshed cabin interiors and latest onboard products including Premium Economy seats. This enabled the airline to deploy its highly sought-after Premium Economy services on more new routes including New York JFK, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Singapore.

In the first half of 2023-24, Emirates launched a new global brand advertising campaign featuring Hollywood actor Penelope Cruz; and introduced initiatives to enhance customer travel experience including: a new city check-in facility at Dubai International Financial Centre, free onboard wi-fi for Emirates Skywards members, and a new meal pre-ordering capability for customers to select their meal options in advance of travel.

Overall capacity during the first six months of the year increased by 25% to 28.5 billion Available Tonne Kilometres (ATKM) due to an expanded flight programme. Capacity measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKM), increased by 30%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKM) was up by 35% with an average Passenger Seat Factor of 81.5%, compared with 78.5% during the same period last year.

Emirates carried 26.1 million passengers between 1 April and 30 September 2023, up 31% from the same period last year. Emirates Skycargo uplifted 1,035,000 tonnes in the first six months of the year, an 11% increase compared to the same period last year despite an overall softening in the global cargo market. This reflects the cargo division’s ability to meet customer demand with specialised products, and the excellent network options on offer with its freighter and bellyhold cargo operations.

Emirates profit for the first half of 2023-24 hit a new record of AED 9.4 billion (US$ 2.6 billion), compared to same period last year’s profit of AED 4.0 billion (US$ 1.1 billion). Emirates revenue, including other operating income, of AED 59.5 billion (US$ 16.2 billion) was up 19% compared with the AED 50.1 billion (US$ 13.7 billion) recorded in the same period last year. The airline’s record performance is attributable to the strong passenger demand for international travel across markets and Emirates’ ability to activate capacity to match demand; and offer customers great value and services.

Emirates’ direct operating costs (including fuel) grew by 9% in line with increased operations. Fuel remains the largest component of the airline’s operating cost (34%), compared to 38% in the same period last year.

Driven by strong demand and increased operations during the six months, Emirates’ EBITDA grew by 33% to AED 19.5 billion (US$ 5.3 billion) compared to AED 14.7 billion (US$ 4.0 billion) for the same period last year.

The introduction of Cooling as a Service (CaaS) provides chilled water and air conditioning through a reliable, efficient and sustainable solution.  Supplied by provider Kaer, CaaS was implemented at dnata Singapore in January 2022 to provide cool water and air to its cargo, catering and support facilities.  Under the CaaS model, Kaer retrofitted the cooling systems serving the two facilities with high efficiency, low-Global Warming Potential (GWP) technology and have deployed their suite of data mining, machine learning and carbon monitoring software.

This has resulted in a 54% reduction in energy consumption at dnata’s cargo base, and a 35% reduction at its catering and support offices. The technology also allows for real-time monitoring and reporting of service levels, as well as energy use and carbon emissions for ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) reporting.

The carbon saving of 650 metric tonnes each year is equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions from 530 petrol-powered cars for one year, or over six million miles (9.65 million kilometres) driven by an average petrol-powered car. It is also equivalent to the Carbon Dioxide emissions from 464 average homes’ electricity use for one year.

dnata’s Singapore facilities were already benefitting from sustainable technology through the use of a rooftop power plant which comprises of 6,500 individual solar panels, generating over 4,300 megawatt hours of green power each year. This enabled dnata to reduce its electricity-related carbon emissions by 20%. The energy savings achieved by the new cooling systems is the equivalent to installing an additional 2,400 rooftop solar panels.

Charles Galloway, dnata’s Regional CEO, Airport Operations – Asia Pacific, said: “We are proud to be an early pioneer in low-GWP refrigerant, and making our Singapore operations even more efficient and sustainable. We have plans to expand our CaaS initiatives to additional areas of our operations, and look forward to working with our partners to further reduce our environmental footprint.”

Justin Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, Kaer, added: “We are excited to welcome dnata into the CaaS movement and to be a part of their journey towards carbon neutrality. Our ongoing partnership with dnata allows us to scale up our investments in low carbon technology in the coming years and showcase how the implementation of CaaS, alongside the use of solar panels can deliver clean and sustainable cooling.”

dnata recently announced that it was on track to reduce its carbon footprint and waste to landfill by 50% by 2030 as part of its eight-year green operations strategy. Previously, the company committed US$ 100 million to implement green technology and initiatives across its businesses globally to achieve its strategic objectives. The company’s recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in infrastructure, green ground support solutions and process improvement.

dnata currently serves more than 50 airlines at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) with a team of 1,500 aviation professionals, who handle over 15,000 flights, provide over 3.75 million meals, and move over 250,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 34 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion. For more information, visit dnata.com.

About Kaer

The pioneer of Cooling as a Service (CaaS), Kaer has designed, built and operated cooling systems for commercial and industrial buildings in Asia for over 70 years. Aiming to make CaaS the model of choice for the real estate industry, Kaer enables businesses to simply buy cooling on a pay as you use basis to overcome significant capital investment and challenges associated with owning a cooling system. 

With over SGD $50 million of cooling assets under management, Kaer is serving over 15 million square feet of real estate space across Asia. To know more, follow https://www.kaer.com/

About Cooling as a Service (CaaS)

In the traditional approach to cooling, building owners handle the purchase, installation, and maintenance of cooling systems, incurring high upfront and ongoing costs. Under the CaaS model, building owners simply dictate the cooling conditions they require and Kaer delivers that as and when needed. This shifts the financial and operational responsibilities to Kaer, allowing building owners to buy cooling at a fixed $/RTH rate (Refrigerant Ton Hour) rate on a pay-as-you-use basis.

Alex Doisneau, Managing Director of dnata UK (Airport Operations), who accepted the award on behalf of dnata globally, said: “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award as a recognition of our commitment to innovation, safety and service excellence.  We thank all members of the dnata team globally whose hard work has been the driving force behind our success. We will continue to invest in infrastructure and technologies to provide world-class services and set new standards in the air cargo industry."

Over the past year, dnata has continued to enhance its operations through strategic investments globally. It established operations in Zanzibar, Tanzania and expanded its footprint in Canada through its partnership with the GTA Group, adding Calgary and Vancouver to its cargo network. In addition, it increased its investment in Air Dispatch to become the sole shareholder of the world’s leading provider of centralised load control services. 

dnata has also taken major infrastructure projects to the next level. In Erbil, it broke ground on a new cargo facility which will add significant expansion to its operations in Iraq. Meanwhile, construction of dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, one of the world’s largest and most advanced facilities of its kind, continued in The Netherlands.

dnata has also invested in cutting-edge technologies and digitalisation to further improve efficiencies across its operations. Key milestones include the continued global rollout of its advanced cargo management system, OneCargo, and the successful integration of autonomous drones into its cargo operations in Dubai, UAE.

dnata has continued efforts to optimise resources across its global network as part of its pledge to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% by 2030.  Previously, the company committed US$ 100 million to implement green technology and initiatives across its businesses to achieve its strategic objective. The company’s recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in infrastructure, green ground support solutions and process improvement.

As a recognition of its unwavering commitment to sustainability across its diverse portfolio of businesses in the UAE, dnata has recently received the International Air Transport Association’ (IATA) environmental management certification (IEnvA).

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. It offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “As we mark Civil Aviation Day in the UAE, it is an honour to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the local aviation industry alongside the authorities, our partners and team.

“Since its foundation in 1959, dnata’s journey has been one of dedication, innovation and relentless commitment to service excellence. We are extremely proud to see how our company and its hardworking teams have played an instrumental role in the success and growth of Dubai and the UAE aviation industry. 

“Aviation is a vital driver of economic progress, and we look forward to contributing to the UAE’s further development by consistently providing best-in-class services across our diverse operations.”

dnata was founded in January 1959 with just two staff operating solely as a UAE-based travel agency. Since then, it has constantly expanded its operations and services, growing to become pivotal to the success and growth of Dubai, and of the country’s aviation industry.

dnata’s milestones over the past 64 years include:

• Playing an instrumental part in the design of the original Dubai International airport (DXB) in the 1960s and its three terminals
• The first aircraft turnaround at DXB’s newly-opened terminal in 1971
• The launch of marhaba and its renowned airport hospitality services in 1991
• Its expansion into Dubai World Central airport (DWC) in 2010     
• The opening of a new export customer service centre and Cargo Integrated Control Centre at Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZA) in 2016
• The completion of the UAE’s first “green” turnaround of a flydubai aircraft at DXB in 2019, an achievement made possible by consistent investments in zero-emission, electric ramp ground support equipment.

Having mirrored Dubai’s growth, the dnata Group presently employs over 23,000 staff, delivering world-class services to over 190 passenger and cargo airlines across the UAE. Every day, the company’s customer-oriented professionals assist over 86,000 passengers, handle over 220,000 bags, manage 580 safe aircraft turnarounds and move 1,600 tonnes of cargo in Dubai. Besides, marhaba’s best-in-class Lounge and Meet & Greet services ensure a smooth and memorable airport journey for over 8,000 passengers per day. dnata also provides over 25,000 meals each day through its Alpha Flight Services joint venture in Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.

Further to its success in the UAE, dnata took a huge leap forward with the launch of its first overseas operation, Gerry’s dnata in Pakistan in 1993. This strategic move led the way for the expansion of dnata’s global operations through acquisitions, partnerships, as well as organic growth over the past three decades. dnata has evolved into a leading global player in the aviation, catering & retail and travel industries that currently provides quality and safe services in more than 30 countries across six continents.

IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.

IATA’s comprehensive evaluation encompassed 74 mandatory and all three optional modules, rigorously assessing dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations in the UAE. In addition to its corporate Headquarters, ground handling and cargo businesses, dnata’s airport hospitality brand, marhaba, and inflight catering joint venture, Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), have also been certified through IEnvA’s hospitality module. DUBZ, dnata’s baggage technology and logistics company, also received the certification. This remarkable outcome attests to dnata’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of sustainability.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are immensely proud to be the first combined air services provider to achieve the full scope of the IEnvA certification in the UAE. This accomplishment speaks volumes about our team's dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices across our operations. We will continue our investments in people, infrastructure and equipment to maximise environmental efficiency, while consistently delivering best-in-class services for our customers and travellers in the UAE and beyond.”

Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Chief Economist, commented: “I would like to extend my most sincere congratulations to dnata for achieving full IEnvA Certification in the UAE. This is a remarkable achievement that reflects their unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices. I commend the efforts of everyone involved and wish dnata continued success in their role of our industry's sustainability journey.”

dnata recently announced that it was on track to reduce its carbon footprint and waste to landfill by 20% by 2024 as part of its two-year green operations strategy. Previously, the company committed US$ 100 million to implement green technology and initiatives across its businesses to achieve its strategic objectives. The company’s recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in infrastructure, green ground support solutions and process improvement.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

dnata’s latest initiative is part of its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and waste to landfill by 20% by 2024 in line with its two-year green operations strategy. In June 2022, dnata announced that it would invest US$100 million in green operations in two years to further enhance its environmental efficiency globally.

dnata’s group brands cutting fossil fuel dependence

dnata Logistics has switched 31 of its trucks to be run on a biofuel blend at its Dubai-based hub. Providing multimodal freight forwarding, logistics, supply chain and road transport services, its trucks cover up to a total 217,000 kilometres per month. The move saves almost 35 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, the equivalent of eight petrol-powered cars driven for one whole year.

City Sightseeing Dubai, a joint venture with dnata Travel Group, operates three tour routes, providing elevated viewing of Dubai’s top attractions, through the use of 21 open-top, biofueled buses. These cover an average 76,000 kilometres per month, removing over 32 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year: the equivalent of the electricity use of four average homes for 12 months.

Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), dnata’s inflight catering joint venture, has already switched five landside vehicles to biofuel blend, and is also in the process of transitioning all of its Sharjah-based airside catering trucks. Alpha now sends its used cooking oil to the biofuel manufacturer and once recycled, it is then re-used within its vehicles. Research shows that one litre of oil recycled into biofuel avoids the emissions of 3kg of CO₂, a reduction of 92% compared to diesel fuel use. Alpha’s vehicles cover over 27,000 kilometres per month, supporting the company’s extensive catering operations that create over 25,000 meals a day. As a result of the initiative, Alpha will save seven tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, the equivalent of charging over 850,000 smartphones.

Arabian Adventures has also switched the generators at its desert safari camps to a biofuel mix. The most experienced tour and safaris operator in the UAE, offering true Arabian hospitality, desert safaris, experiences and dune buggies, is saving almost five tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year as a result of the initiative. This equates to 1987 litres of diesel.

Besides its recent investment in landside operations, dnata has significantly invested in the electrification of its ground handling fleet across its global airport operations to reduce emissions, with more than 15% of the company’s global fleet now electrified. However, dnata understands that electrification is not the only solution for all vehicles throughout its group, and invests in a mix of equipment types and renewable fuel sources to maximise environmental and operational efficiency globally. It already operates biodiesel, electric and hybrid vehicles as well as actively exploring the use of hydrogen-powered equipment in its operations.

dnata’s other recent key initiatives include continued significant investment in renewable infrastructure, low-emissions ground support solutions and process improvements to optimise fuel efficiency. dnata continues to make significant investments in renewable energy including the installation of rooftop solar panels across its existing facilities, and capture and recycling of grey water or rainwater for conservation.

Waste to landfill focus

In order to reduce its environmental footprint in ways other than emissions, dnata is determined to reduce waste to landfill, and is collaborating with industry leaders and policymakers on the treatment of international catering waste. In addition, dnata is investing in sustainable solutions to recycle cargo waste materials, such as transport belts and nets. In close co-ordination with the airport community to enhance the segregation and retrieval of recyclables airside, dnata is targeting a 20% diversion of waste from landfill by 2024.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in over 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

Speedcargo’s artificial intelligence (AI)-based Cargo Eye and Assemble solutions installed at dnata’s facilities will help overall logistical efficiency, digitisation and optimise cargo capacity for Etihad Cargo’s daily flights departing from Singapore. The roll-out of Cargo Eye and Assemble follows the airline’s decision to implement the technology in response to successful trials.

Cargo Eye uses advanced, vision-based 3D technology to scan and capture a cargo’s exact dimensions, volume data, images, and labels, providing a comprehensive digital record. This information is then fed into Assemble which creates a digital plan, advising dnata’s highly-trained cargo handling teams of the optimal method of building a pallet. The innovative solutions ensure Etihad Cargo maximises cargo capacity, while becoming more efficient and sustainable.

Both Cargo Eye and Assemble seamlessly integrate into dnata’s existing warehouse management system.

Charles Galloway, dnata’s Regional CEO, Airport Operations – Asia Pacific, said: “dnata is proud to lead the digitisation of cargo processes through innovative technology solutions. Working alongside Speedcargo, Cargo Eye and Assemble will enable us to provide Etihad Cargo and its customers with digital audit trails of how their cargo has been handled, improving efficiency and providing a quality end-to-end service. We will continue to create value and enhance our service offerings through digitalisation.”

Dr Krishna Kumar Nallur, Speedcargo’s CEO, commented: “This first step towards industry transformation will enable end-to-end optimization of cargo capacity, from booking to cargo hold. Our AI-powered solutions will help Etihad Cargo to maximize capacity across their fleet, and enable dnata Singapore to digitise their cargo handling, thereby improving their productivity and efficiency in operations.”

Thomas Schürmann, Head of Cargo Operations & Delivery at Etihad Cargo, said: “With the launch of Speedcargo Technologies’ AI-powered solutions, Etihad Cargo is transforming airfreight operations and optimising cargo capacity as the latest step in the carrier’s digitalisation journey. Singapore was selected as the first station to go live with these state-of-the-art AI tools, which will boost efficiency, digitise and standardise cargo handling across Etihad Cargo's network and enhance service levels for the carrier's customers and partners. Following successful trials of the AI-powered cargo handling solutions, Etihad Cargo sought out a ground handling partner to deploy Cargo Eye and Assemble, and dnata was a clear choice, being fully aligned with Etihad Cargo’s commitment to utilising cargo-maximising technology to enhance air cargo operations.”

dnata’s Singapore facilities are the first in its expansive global network to implement Cargo Eye and Assemble technology. Speedcargo is working with dnata to roll out the service at further global stations.

dnata currently serves more than 50 airlines at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) with a team of 1,500 aviation professionals, who handle over 20,000 flights, provide over 3.75 million meals, and move over 250,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

About dnata

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 37 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion. Our Media centre contains all of our business updates, including the latest press releases and articles, and our contact details.

About Speedcargo Technologies

Speedcargo Technologies brings innovative solutions that use computer vision technologies, advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence and robotics to transform the air cargo operations of airlines and ground handlers. Speedcargo’s suite of products enables airlines and ground handlers to optimize their cargo capacity utilization, maximize revenues and improve productivity. Speedcargo is a spin out from Technical University of Munich (TUM) – CREATE and its products have been deployed globally.

About Etihad Cargo

Etihad Cargo is the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Since its establishment in 2004, Etihad Cargo has grown rapidly to become one of the leading air cargo carriers in the world, offering customers a range of cargo products and services to five major continents. Its hub in Abu Dhabi is strategically located at the centre of the world's busiest trade lanes, providing an integral link between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa.

In addition to general cargo, Etihad Cargo offers a wide range of specialty products including live animals, dangerous goods, valuables and vulnerables, personal effects, as well as its market leading cold chain products (the latter holding IATA's stringent Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications for both Pharmaceutical and Perishables Logistics, as well as Live Animals Logistics). 

For more information, please visit www.etihadcargo.com

Orchids, chrysanthemums, and the ever-popular roses are the most popular types of 27,000 tonnes of flowers imported, arriving daily into the European continent from key source markets in East Africa and South America. One of the busiest times of the year is the two- to three-week window before Valentine’s Day in February, with multiple freight aircraft arriving each day to supply Europe’s love birds.

dnata’s Amsterdam facilities also manage the export of 15,000 tonnes of flowers annually, primarily the home-grown gerbera, gypsophila and peonies.

Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director, dnata Netherlands, said: “Understanding our customers’ requirements is crucial to ensuring perishable items such as flowers preserve their freshness and longevity, maintaining the value for our customers. Our customer-oriented team and best-in-class facilities ensure that perishable cargo is processed quickly and efficiently throughout the transportation process.”

Speed and temperature key

In order to maintain temperature control of flowers, speed of handling while limiting manhandling of the product is key, from unloading off the aircraft, into the dnata facility and on to the trucks and freight forwarders. dnata’s highly-trained teams can typically empty a full freighter aircraft of flowers, and load them on to forwarding trucks in around 90 minutes. If required, dnata’s cool chain facilities at its Amsterdam hub provide cold storage to maintain freshness, before they are transported to market, auctioned and distributed throughout Europe.

Major investment in cargo operations

dnata currently provides ground and cargo handling services to 37 airlines at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) with a team of 1,000 dedicated aviation professionals, who handle 10,000 flights and move 540,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

In 2024 dnata will significantly enhance its operations in The Netherlands by opening a fully automated cargo centre, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam at AMS. One of the largest and most advanced facilities of its kind, including certifications for sustainability and eco-friendly design, the 61,000 m2 facility will use cutting-edge technologies and be capable of processing over 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually. This will include perishables, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, mail, live animals, aircraft engines and vehicles.

Global certifications

dnata’s Amsterdam facilities are certified by IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma). This demonstrates the company’s ability to move pharmaceutical products under the strictest standards. Further certification for Good Distribution Practice (GDP) describes the minimum standards that a wholesale distributor must meet to ensure that the quality and integrity of medicines is maintained throughout the supply chain. These certifications demonstrate dnata’s dedication to good distributive practices and quality in every aspect of service delivery.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 38 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

The most popular imported products handled into Dubai included fruit and vegetables such as mangoes, strawberries, tomatoes, avocadoes and cherries, primarily from locations in Europe, the Far East, South Asia and Africa. dnata also managed the export of a significant quantity of local UAE perishable goods, including large shipments of frozen fish to Ethiopia, bread and yoghurt to Djibouti, and fresh milk to Somalia.

Best-in-class infrastructure and equipment

dnata continues to make significant investments in infrastructure and equipment to ensure efficient and safe handling of perishable goods. With ambient temperatures rising to over 40° Celsius during the summer in Dubai, dnata’s cutting-edge facilities are equipped to maintain all IATA standards for temperature control ranges at all stages of the cargo handling process. This includes transportation to and from the aircraft in high-tech ‘cool dollies’, specially designed to serve perishable and pharmaceutical industries with a closed temperature-controlled system. 

dnata’s cool chain facilities at its Dubai World Central (DWC) hub provide a total of 22 separate storage areas, offering a range of temperatures from -20°C Deep Freeze through to Refrigeration and 25°C Controlled Room Temperature.

Guillaume Crozier, dnata’s Senior Vice President, UAE Cargo & Global Cargo Strategy, said: “We are committed to consistently investing in infrastructure and the latest, digital technologies to strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global cargo hub. Despite extreme weather conditions in the summer, our world-class facilities, advanced equipment and close cooperation with our partners and authorities ensure that each piece of perishable cargo remains at its optimum storage temperature throughout the transportation process. We will continue to enhance our operations and processes to maximise efficiency and deliver the highest value for our customers globally.”

Leading handler of Pharma

dnata plays a key role in the safe handling of pharmaceuticals and vaccines in Dubai. Its facilities include dedicated Deep Freeze and refrigerated storage for health care and life sciences products. It maintains Key Performance Indicators established by CEIV, with the ability to deliver shipments within two hours of flight arrival.

dnata’s Dubai cool chain facilities were integral in the safe handling of global Covid-19 vaccines transportation, and in the 12 months up to 31 March 2023, it handled close to 8,000 tonnes of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals. 

dnata’s Dubai cargo facilities at both DWC and Dubai International (DXB) airports are certified by IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma). This demonstrates the company’s ability to move pharmaceutical products under the strictest standards.

Close collaboration with authorities

After the offloading process from the aircraft is complete, imported goods are transported to the dnata warehouse facility via cool dollies and moved directly into temperature-controlled storage depending on their requirements. They are then inspected by stakeholders where required including Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Health, and Customs to ensure product quality, and health and safety standards are met. Once approved, goods are then dispatched to the awaiting customer.

Large-scale shipments

Due to its ideal global logistical location, dnata’s vast Dubai facilities handle and safely store a broad range of cargo, working closely alongside the company’s airline partners. These products either arriving, transiting or departing to and from destinations around the world, range from clothing and shoes, to vehicles and aircraft engines. 

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 38 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

In June 2022, dnata announced that it would invest US$100 million in green operations in two years to further enhance its global environmental efficiency globally.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We are proud to have made significant progress on improving our environmental performance since the announcement of our strategic objectives. I thank each member of our team for their hard work and contribution to our green initiatives that help us make a difference across our global operations. 

“We will continue our investments and efforts alongside our partners to further reduce our environmental footprint.”

Investing in renewable energy

As part of its efforts to further improve global resource efficiency, dnata has continued to make significant investments in renewable energy. This includes the installation of rooftop solar power systems across its existing facilities.

dnata has installed solar panels at its operating facilities in Singapore, and at its SnapFresh facility in Australia. These generate over 4,300 MWh of renewable electricity annually, saving approximately 1.85 million kilogrammes of carbon dioxide emissions. Phase 1 of a solar PV panel installation in Pakistan also commenced, which is expected to generate 244,000 kWh per annum. Furthermore, all electricity purchased in the UK and Ireland is from renewables from local grids.

Conserving water

In addition to solar power, dnata is investing in systems to collect and re-use condensate from air conditioning units and rainwater at both of its existing and new facilities. These initiatives optimise water usage and associated costs.

dnata’s new 20,000m2 cargo facility in Iraq, which will begin operations in 2024, will include environmentally sustainable features including a rooftop rainwater harvesting system. This will capture, treat and store rainwater in underground tanks, feeding irrigation systems within the facility as well as for potable uses, achieving a 50% saving on water costs by 2025. The system has also been configured in the Philippines using the same technology, but to collect and recycle rainwater for drinking and washing purposes. This technology will also shortly be implemented at dnata’s Singapore facilities.

With the UAE’s dry climate, dnata has installed a Reverse Osmosis Plant to re-use condensate water from the cooling systems in its cargo warehouses in Dubai. This has resulted in 5,000 litres of water per day being reused for washing and cleaning.

dnata also launched a bottle-free drinking water system at its Corporate Headquarters, dnata Travel Centre and Alpha catering facilities, which will reduce plastic consumption and conserve over 95,000 litres of bottled water per year.

Transforming GSE fleet and using biofuels

dnata continues to invest in the electrification of its ground handling fleet, and the use of biofuels where feasible, to reduce emissions. More than 15% of the company’s global fleet is now electrified. dnata is continuing to support its global airport partners to prepare the infrastructure for further electrification.

dnata understands that electrification is not the only solution to its ground handling fleet strategy. It carefully considers airports’ climatic conditions and available infrastructure, and invests in a mix of equipment types, including biodiesel, electric, hydrogen and hybrid to maximise environmental and operational efficiency globally.

As part of the crucial role that it plays during busy winter operations in Switzerland, dnata added five new hybrid de-icing trucks to its ground support equipment (GSE) fleet in 2022. This increased the number of electric GSE in its operations in the country to 35%. In The Netherlands, dnata switched to 100% biofuel for all its legacy GSE fleet in January 2023, marking another milestone in its sustainable journey in Amsterdam, where 55% of its fleet is electric.

Reducing waste to landfill

In order to reduce its carbon footprint in ways other than emissions, dnata is determined to reduce waste to landfill, and is collaborating with industry leaders and policymakers on the treatment of international catering waste. In close co-ordination with the airport community to enhance the segregation and retrieval of recyclables airside, dnata is targeting a 20% diversion of waste from landfill by 2024. In addition, dnata is investing in sustainable solutions for cargo waste materials, such as transport belts and nets that are currently destined for landfill.

dnata Catering’s retail division is also working closely with its airline partners, introducing the pre-ordering of passenger inflight meals. This cuts significant food wastage, and therefore the need for airlines to burn larger quantities of fuel to transport heavier aircraft, reducing emissions.

IATA’s IEnvA Programme

In December 2022, dnata signed up to the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on globally recognised environmental and sustainability standards, as well as industry best practices. It is a commitment to continually improve environmental sustainability within the aviation field and is focused specifically on dnata’s core operations. These include cargo handling facilities, catering, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers. dnata is working towards full certification prior to the end of 2023.

United Nations Global Impact

dnata also joined the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), a voluntary global initiative that promotes responsible business practices, and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals. dnata has committed to implement the Ten Principles of the UNGC in the areas of human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. dnata will benefit from access to the UNGC’s extensive tools and resources to engage with its employees across the globe and improve their learning and training in Sustainability.

dnata is a leading global air and travel services provider. Established in 1959, the company offers quality and safe ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 38 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 710,000 aircraft turns, moved over 2.7 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 111.4 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.9 billion.

Emirates achieved new record profits, a complete turnaround from its loss position last year. Both Emirates and dnata saw significant revenue increases in 2022-23 as the Group expanded its air transport and travel-related operations following the removal of nearly all pandemic-related restrictions around the world.

For the financial year ended 31 March 2023, the Emirates Group posted a record profit of AED 10.9 billion (US$ 3.0 billion) compared with an AED 3.8 billion (US$ 1.0 billion) loss for last year. The Group’s revenue was AED 119.8 billion (US$ 32.6 billion), an increase of 81% over last year’s results. The Group’s cash balance was AED 42.5 billion (US$ 11.6 billion), the highest ever reported, up 65% from last year mainly due to strong demand across its core business divisions and markets.  

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group, said: “We’re proud of our 2022-23 performance which is not only a full recovery, but also a record result. This achievement would not have been possible without HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, whose leadership has been critical to our success today and through the years. The architect of Dubai’s progressive economic policies, HH Sheikh Mohammed is also the engine behind the Emirates Group’s trajectory. Without his drive and support, Emirates will be half the size of what we are today.”

He added: I’m proud of the Emirates Group’s performance for 2022-23, and our contribution to the restoration of air transport and tourism across the markets we serve, including Dubai’s astounding 97% year-on-year growth in international visitors for 2022. The Group is the biggest player in the UAE’s aviation sector, which supports over 770,000 jobs and generates an estimated contribution to GDP of over US$ 47 billion (AED 172.5 billion). With our growth plans, and in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, we expect to significantly increase our contribution to the UAE’s GDP over the next decade through direct and indirect employment, supply chain spending, tourism spend, and trade and commerce benefits from the movement of cargo.”

Commenting on the Group’s 2022-23 turnaround performance, Sheikh Ahmed said: “We had anticipated the strong return of travel, and as the last travel restrictions lifted and triggered a tide of demand, we were ready to expand our operations quickly and safely to serve our customers. Our ongoing investments in our brand, and in our products and services, helped drive customer preference and position us favourably in the market. As a result, we have delivered a record financial performance and cash balance for our financial year 2022-23.  This reflects the strength of our proven business model, our careful forward planning, the hard work of all our employees, and our solid partnerships across the aviation and travel ecosystem.”

To support expanded operations and to bolster the Group’s future capabilities, Emirates and dnata ramped up recruitment activity across the globe during the year. As a result, the Group’s total workforce increased by 20% to 102,379 employees, representing over 160 different nationalities.

In 2022-23, the Group collectively invested AED 7.2 billion (US$ 2.0 billion) in new aircraft, facilities, equipment, companies, and the latest technologies to position the business for future growth. Our commitments include: a massive multi-billion dollar aircraft cabin retrofit programme; an order for 5 new 777 freighters; the building of a new pilot training centre; the opening of Bustanica, the world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai under a partnership with CropOne; new training aircraft for its cadets at Emirates Flight Training Academy; dnata’s acquisition of 30% shares to gain full ownership of its ground handling operations in Brazil; and the building of a new advanced cargo facility in Erbil, Iraq.

The Emirates Group also continued to progress on its sustainability journey during the year. Notably, it signed up to the United Nations Global Compact, a voluntary initiative where Emirates and dnata will work towards making the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Principles part of their strategy, culture, and operations. The Group also signed the UAE Gender Balance Council’s pledge to increase female representation at mid-senior management positions to 30% across the country by 2025.

Amongst its numerous environmental initiatives, a key highlight for Emirates was the successful conduct of a demonstration flight with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in one engine of a Boeing 777. This first-in-region initiative contributes to collective industry data and efforts to enable a future of 100% SAF flying. dnata in 2022-23 pledged to invest US$ 100 million (AED 367 million) over 2 years, to improve environmental efficiency across its global business, supporting its goal to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.

During the year, the Group supported various community and humanitarian initiatives across its markets including relief efforts for the floods in Pakistan and the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. It also continued to participate in innovation incubators, and support programmes that build a pipeline of skilled aviation talent and develop future solutions for the industry.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “In 2022-23, we’ve not only brought back most of our operations but also grew our footprint and capabilities by investing in people, product, and new technologies – demonstrating our agility and ability. We continue to lay strong foundations for future success and join hands with partners to grow our business and to collaborate on innovative solutions for travel and aviation. As our business expands, so does our ability to make a positive impact on the communities we serve. We are steadfast in our commitment to deliver value to our customers and stakeholders while minimising our environmental impact.

“We go into 2023-24 with a strong positive outlook and expect the Group to remain profitable. We will work hard to hit our targets while keeping a close watch on inflation, high fuel prices, and political and economic uncertainty.”

dnata performance

Recovery from the pandemic was felt across almost all dnata businesses, and in 2022-23 dnata increased its profit by 201% to AED 331 million (US$ 90 million).

With growing flight and travel activity across the world, dnata's total revenue increased by 74% to AED 14.9 billion (US$ 4.1 billion). dnata’s international businesses account for 72% of its revenue, an increase of 10%pts from the previous year. Through the year, dnata worked closely with its customers through the challenges of labour shortages and rising inflation in its major markets such as UK, US, Europe and Australia.  

Laying the foundations for future growth, dnata’s investments in 2022-23 amounted to AED 467 million (US$ 127 million). Significant investments during the year included: a new cargo centre in Amsterdam, the Netherlands; new modern cargo and ground service equipment facilities in Erbil, Iraq; the global roll-out of its advanced “OneCargo” system to digitise and automate business functions; the expansion of marhaba operations in Dubai and Zanzibar; and the re-opening of renovated catering facilities in Sydney with energy efficient installations and equipment upgrades.

In 2022-23, dnata’s operating costs increased by 74% to AED 14.6 billion (US$ 4.0 billion), in line with expanded operations in its Airport Operations, Catering and Travel divisions and impacted by inflationary pressure across all markets mainly for labour and food supply.

dnata’s cash balance improved by more than AED 200 million to AED 5.1 billion (US$ 1.4 billion). Net cash used in financing activities, primarily payments for loans and leases, amounted to AED 906 million (US$ 247 million), while the business utilised net cash of AED 528 million (US$ 144 million) in essential investing activities. The business saw a positive operating cash flow of AED 1.4 billion (US$ 381 million) in 2022-23, a reflection of the substantial improvements in revenue.

Revenue from dnata’s Airport Operations, including ground and cargo handling increased to AED 7.2 billion (US$ 2.0 billion).

The number of aircraft turns handled by dnata globally grew by 35% to 712,383, cargo handled declined by 8% to 2.7 million tonnes, reflecting the increased flight activity across markets as the last pandemic restrictions lifted and dnata’s customers reinstated services.

During 2022-23, dnata launched its ground handling operations at the newly built terminal of Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, together with Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) and MMI as master concessionaire for all food and beverage, duty free and commercial outlets at the terminal. It also expanded operations in Canada, partnering GTA Group to offer quality and safe cargo services in Calgary and Vancouver.

dnata’s Catering & Retail business accounted for AED 4.8 billion (US$ 1.3 billion) of dnata’s revenue, up by 187%. The inflight catering business uplifted 111.4 million meals to airline customers, almost three times the number of meals from last year, as its airline customers across the world restored their flight operations.

dnata’s Catering & Retail division substantially increased production to support airlines to restart their flight operations after the pandemic particularly in Australia, and its key markets of UK and the USA. It also worked extensively with its customers on flexing their menus to address supply chain issues and food inflation.

In the UAE, Alpha Flight Services (Alpha), dnata’s subsidiary, signed a concession agreement under which it will provide flight catering services to over 10 airlines at Ras Al Khaimah International airport, operate three F&B outlets, as well as the airport lounge.

Notable contract wins for the catering division in 2022-23 include: multi-year catering contracts with Australia’s newest airline, Bonza, and with Air India for its flights in London, Birmingham, and Milan; contracts with United Airlines and Edelweiss Air for their flights in Jordan; and with Lufthansa and Swiss International Air Lines in Singapore.

Revenue from dnata’s Travel Services division grew by 227% to AED 2.3 billion (US$ 618 million). The reported total transaction value (TTV) of travel services sold increased by 203% to AED 7.0 billion (US$ 1.9 billion), a substantial growth from last year. This reflects last year’s abnormal situation where the business was recovering from COVID-19-related booking cancellations.

In 2022-23, dnata Representation Services boosted its existing customer service support for Lufthansa in Europe and grew its relationship with American Airlines by providing a range of sales and marketing services to the carrier as its general sales agent in India. dnata became the preferred travel partner in the Middle East for American Express Global Business Travel, the world’s leading B2B travel platform; and enhanced its long-standing partnership with Club Med to bring tailor-made, all-inclusive holidays at exclusive rates closer to the GCC travellers.

In the UAE, dnata expanded its retail footprint with the opening of a new travel store in Dubai Hills. Reflecting the increased visitor numbers and demand for Dubai experiences, Arabian Adventures expanded and enhanced its popular ‘Overnight Safari’ experience in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and re-launched an enhanced edition of its signature Jeep Adventure Safari.

dnata's leisure wholesale specialist, Yalago, expanded its global in-markets teams, and recorded a 92% year on year increase in hotel bookings in 2022.

Emirates performance

Emirates’ total passenger and cargo capacity increased by 32% to 48.2 billion ATKMs in 2022-23, as the airline continued to reinstate passenger services across its network in line with the lifting of pandemic-related flight and travel restrictions. 

In addition to launching services to Tel Aviv, Emirates relaunched flights to six destinations and increased operations to 62 cities across its network throughout the year to serve strong customer demand. By 31 March 2023, the Emirates network comprised 150 destinations across six continents, including 9 cities served by its freighter fleet only. 

Emirates also deployed its flagship A380 aircraft to even more cities during the year, bringing its A380 network to 43 destinations as of 31 March 2023.

Enabling its customers access even more destinations, Emirates signed agreements with new codeshare partners in 2022-23 most notably with United Airlines and Air Canada, expanding the airline’s connectivity in the Americas to over 200 new points, in addition to mutual frequent flyer programme benefits. Emirates also reinforced its strategic partnerships with Qantas and flydubai and added new interline and codeshare partners: Airlink, AEGEAN, ITA Airways, Air Tanzania, Bamboo Airways, Batik Air, Philippine Airlines, Royal Air Maroc and Sky Express.

Emirates received two new 777 freighter aircraft during the financial year. It also phased out 4 older aircraft comprising of 2 A380, 1 Boeing 777-300ERs and 1 Freighter. Its total fleet count at the end of March was 260 units, with a youthful average fleet age of 9.1 years. 

Emirates’ order book stands at 200 aircraft, including 5 additional Boeing 777-300ER freighter orders announced during 2022-23. The airline’s long-standing strategy of operating modern and efficient aircraft remains unchanged, a commitment which underpins its Fly Better brand promise as a young fleet is better for the environment, better for operations, and better for customers.

With significantly enhanced capacity deployment across most markets, Emirates’ total revenue for the financial year increased 81% to AED 107.4 billion (US$ 29.3 billion). Currency fluctuations in some of the airline’s major markets, notably the Euro, Pound Sterling, and devaluation of the Pakistani Rupee, significantly impacted the airline’s profitability negatively by AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion).

Total operating costs increased by 57% from last financial year. Cost of ownership (depreciation and amortisation) and fuel cost were the two biggest cost components for the airline in 2022-23, followed by employee cost. Fuel accounted for 36% of operating costs compared to 23% in 2021-22. The airline’s fuel bill increased by 143% to AED 33.7 billion (US$ 9.2 billion) compared to the previous year, due to a higher uplift of 49% in line with capacity expansion and a higher average fuel price which was up by 48%.

With the removal of pandemic-related travel restrictions globally, the airline substantially improved its financial results and reported a record profit of AED 10.6 billion (US$ 2.9 billion) after last year’s AED 3.9 billion (US$ 1.1 billion) loss, and an exceptional profit margin of 9.9%, reflecting the best performance in the airline’s history.

Emirates carried 43.6 million passengers (up 123%) in 2022-23, with seat capacity up by 78%. The airline reports a Passenger Seat Factor of 79.5%, compared with last year’s passenger seat factor of 58.6%; and a 7% increase in passenger yield to 37.5 fils (10.2 US cents) per Revenue Passenger Kilometre (RPKM), due to a change in cabin and route mix, fares and currency.  

Emirates continued to invest in delivering ever better customer experiences. During the year, it launched its full Premium Economy experience to hugely positive customer feedback, brought into service the first 6 of its newly retrofitted A380s with completely refreshed cabin interiors, and opened ‘Emirates World’ - a modern concept retail store which will gradually be introduced to other key markets. It also announced a US$ 350 million investment in new generation inflight entertainment systems for its A350 fleet.

With a continued focus on digital initiatives to provide customers with speedy and secure journeys, Emirates also signed a landmark biometric data agreement with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai to fast-track travellers’ journey on arrival.

Emirates SkyCargo delivered a solid performance, contributing 16% of the airline’s revenue despite a reduction in available capacity as aircraft that were temporarily converted into “mini freighters” during the pandemic returned to full passenger service.

In 2022-23, Emirates’ cargo division reinforced its leadership in cool chain transport, building on the advanced expertise and infrastructure that made it the carrier of choice for the transport of temperature sensitive medicines during the pandemic, and other perishable items.

Emirates SkyCargo maintained its edge in the global airfreight industry by focusing its customers, bringing innovative solutions to the market, and leveraging its fleet and network capabilities. During the year, the cargo division signed commercial MoUs with United Airlines and Air Canada to expand its network reach and capacity for customers; introduced a new digital channel, WebCargo, for customers to directly access and book its flights for their cargo shipments; and launched Emirates Delivers UK, expanding its e-commerce shipping solution to UAE customers. 

Emirates SkyCargo also deployed its expertise and capacity to transport relief goods to Pakistan, Turkey and Syria in partnership with Dubai’s International Humanitarian City.

With steady air freight demand throughout the year, Emirates’ cargo division reported a solid revenue of AED 17.2 billion (US$ 4.7 billion). This was a 21% decline over last year’s exceptional performance caused by the pandemic.

Freight yield per Freight Tonne Kilometre (FTKM) increased by 3% despite more cargo capacity returned to the global market, but generally remained at high levels compared to the pandemic marketplace due to steady and strong demand.

Tonnage carried declined by 14% to reach 1.8 million tonnes, due to the reduction in available freighter capacity for the entire year with the reinstatement of more passenger services. At the end of 2022-23, Emirates’ SkyCargo’s total freighter fleet stood at 11 Boeing 777Fs.

Emirates’ hotels portfolio revenue over last year increased by 12% to AED 675 million (US$ 184 million) reflecting the uptick in tourism traffic, particularly to Dubai.   

Emirates has consistently demonstrated the ability and commitment to fulfil its contractual obligations. In addition to repaying aircraft related financing liabilities as they fall due, it successfully repaid AED 3.0 billion (US$ 817 million) more of the total AED 17.5 billion (US$ 4.8 billion) raised during the COVID-19 crisis. This assurance continues to strengthen the confidence of its financing partners in its business model and allowed Emirates to reprice AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion) of debt during this financial year and further raise AED 1.2 billion to finance the acquisition of two new B777 freighter aircraft through an Islamic finance lease at highly effective margins.

In the face of rising interest rates, Emirates adeptly managed its net exposure and effectively mitigated the impact of rate fluctuations on the bottom line. Additionally, the proactive currency risk management programme ensured ongoing financial stability and resilience by employing a range of hedging strategies including forward contracts and natural hedges.

Emirates closed the financial year with an exceptional level of cash assets of AED 37.4 billion (US$ 10.2 billion), 79% higher compared to 31 March 2022.   

The full 2022-23 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates, dnata and their subsidiaries – is available at: www.theemiratesgroup.com/annualreport

US$ figures are converted at 1US$ = 3.67AED and are based on the AED figures rounded off in millions.

Air Dispatch has been offering quality and reliable CLC services to both legacy and new generation carriers since 2007. It calculates the weight and balance conditions for aircraft prior to flight, securing greater productivity and profitability for its airline customers.

Air Dispatch’s CLC unit coordinates with stakeholders at all stages of the operations and provides 24-hour support for weight and balance issues. The timeline for a cargo flight varies and is often spread out over many hours. Cargo handlers, such as dnata, need to understand the maximum weight and specific pallet combinations many hours before the departure of the flights so that they can build the payload in the most effective way, ensuring compliance with the balance requirements of the aircraft operating the flight.  The load planning takes place before the Loadmaster arrives at the airport, freeing them up for the safety critical role of coordinating and supervising the loading. A CLC unit can also coordinate transit loads well before the aircraft arrives, allowing for efficient turnarounds and improved on-time performance. 

Every month, Air Dispatch’s 170 highly-trained aviation professionals produce over 60,000 loadsheets for 19 airlines operating from 392 airports across six continents and every time zone with an airport on the planet.

Nick Yeadon, CEO of Air Dispatch, said: “We are proud to celebrate our 7^th million loadsheet with our highly-skilled team and long-standing customer, marking another remarkable milestone in our journey.

“With the increased adoption of the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM), more and more cargo airlines are looking to CLC services as a way of complying with the newly required “four-eyes” principle for the production of weight and balance documentation.  Using a CLC for the production of the loadsheet allows for early communications with the cargo warehouse, thus maximizing the payload and freeing up the Loadmasters’ time during the turnaround.

“We will continue to work hard to deliver world-class value for our customers through innovative and safe services.” 

Greg Holland, Operations Director at Titan Airways, said: “Congratulations to Air Dispatch on this milestone.  The Air Dispatch team, day in, day out provide our operation teams first-class support.  The CLC team in Prague work proactively with our partners, from our freight forwarder client, through the warehouse and ground handling chain to ensure safe and on time departures while maximising the payload we carry.  Additionally, the CLC provides reactive solutions to our Loadmasters when they are busy out on the ramp and encounter a need to replan, using the four eyes principle this enhances safety and allows our loadmasters to focus on load supervision.”

In addition to its core CLC expertise, the Air Dispatch also provides carriers with other value-added support services, including flight data warehousing and ULD (unit load device) tracking.

Air Dispatch operates three state-of-the-art centralised load control (CLC) centres, two in the Czech Republic, in Prague and Ostrava, and one in Poland, in Warsaw, utilising the customer’s preferred departure control system (DCS) solution.

The Air Dispatch brand is part of dnata. dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 38 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 632 million.

dnata handles luggage for over 100 airlines and millions of passengers travelling to 253 destinations from DXB. Merging and processing the flow of passenger baggage and cargo between three terminals, and ensuring the right items are loaded onto the right aircraft at the correct time requires meticulous planning and significant people power. During peak time operations over 1,300 dnata staff work in close synchrony to deliver every piece of baggage in a timely manner, helping airlines maintain their schedule and provide an excellent customer experience.

Finely crafted operation

While passengers make their way through any of DXB’s three terminals, dnata’s operation of military precision is taking place up to five floors below their feet. DXB’s Baggage Handling System (BHS) transports luggage using innovative conveyor belts and lifts that move both departing and arriving bags. Under the concourse floors of Terminal 3 alone, 160 kilometres of baggage tracks spiral around.

The process to guide a bag to its destination begins from 180 minutes before the scheduled time of departure. Any bags checked in prior to this are held in T3’s automated Early Bag Storage facility, with a capacity of 15,000. The departing bag, transported on its distinctive yellow tray linked to the bag’s luggage tag for accurate tracking, will be security screened up to five times as it makes its way through the system. It then progresses to its awaiting container, or Unit Loading Device (ULD), before being transported on to the aircraft.

As they move through the BHS at up to 2.5 metres per second, the bags then enter a safe, high-speed transfer tunnel, shooting along at 7.5m/s, faster than the passenger trains in the adjacent tunnel.

DXB: a world transit hub

With Dubai perfectly positioned as a global hub, many passengers and bags are in transit to their final destination. Of all passengers arriving into Terminal 3 in 2022, 64% were transiting, while at Terminal 2 transit traffic accounted for 45% of all passengers.

Preparation for the transfer of bags to their destination, begins mid-flight. By six hours before the flight’s arrival at DXB, dnata will be ready to accept the bags, knowing how many on each aircraft it needs to transfer, as well as the size, weight and final destination of each one.

Despite this huge hub complexity, dnata consistently delivers world class baggage services at DXB with success rates that significantly outperform the industry average.

Meticulous planning

The ULD’s position on each aircraft also needs to be carefully planned, based on where the bags are headed and their priority level. For instance, many airlines expect bags of their First Class customers to be given top priority, and bags earmarked for transfer also need to be handled immediately and efficiently.

That process can be complicated by baggage that cannot enter the main system, due to being oversized or unusual. Items such as televisions, sports equipment, child’s car seats and even holy water requiring manual handling, and these odd-sized items account for about 5% of total baggage.

The whole operation is carefully monitored and managed by the BHS Control Room, located below the T3 Arrivals Baggage Hall. Here, a giant digital screen projects the entire colour-coded Baggage Handling System, alongside CCTV footage, and operators keeping a close eye on various portions of the massive operation 24/7/365.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations, said: “dnata is proud to serve the millions of passengers who pass through the world’s largest airport.

“dnata ensures that passengers travel with the confidence that their luggage will be handled efficiently and safely, and will meet them at their destination. This is made possible by the intricate logistical planning by our teams, and the handling by baggage personnel every hour of each day. This keeps flights moving on time and passengers and cargo arriving on schedule.”

As one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel and catering & retail services at over 130 airports in more than 30 countries across six continents.

Phil has been with dnata for over 10 years. Since last July, he has overseen dnata Brazil’s operations at 29 airports as Acting CEO, managing a team of 5,000 local aviation professionals. In his previous position as Chief Commercial Officer, he was responsible for leading all of the company’s commercial activities, including business development and customer relations.

Phil has over 30 years’ experience in the aviation and transport industries. Prior to joining dnata he held various senior roles, supporting the commercial operations and growth of globally renowned companies in the Middle East, USA and Europe.

David Barker, Divisional Senior Vice President, Airport Operations, said: “Phil has made a significant contribution to dnata’s business in Brazil over the past decade. His strong leadership skills, commercial mindset and customer-centric approach make him the right person to lead the company through its next phase of growth in the country.

“Phil’s appointment is a reflection of our commitment to promoting from within and recognising the contributions and achievements of our high-performing colleagues.” 

In recent years dnata has significantly expanded its footprint in Brazil. It currently operates at 29 airports in the country, serving more than 15 airlines. In 2022, dnata acquired the remaining 30% stake to assume full ownership of dnata Brazil and has further plans to enhance its operations across South America.

As one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel and catering & retail services at over 130 airports in more than 30 countries across six continents. 

The three companies will work closely together to deliver world-class services for airlines and passengers at the newly-built international terminal (T3) of ZNZ. The partnership is expected to significantly contribute to the government’s target of boosting its trade and tourism sectors.

The investment of dnata, Emirates Leisure Retail and SEGAP represents over USD 10 million and, to date, has created some 500 local jobs with the companies.

dnata will provide its globally renowned, quality ground, passenger and cargo handling services to airline customers at ZNZ, ensuring safe and timely operations of flights and an excellent travel experience for passengers. In addition, dnata launched meet & greet and lounge services through its airport hospitality brand, marhaba, to help passengers further enhance their experience and enjoy a smooth airport journey from check-in to boarding. 

Emirates Leisure Retail has partnered with MMI as master concessionaire for all food and beverage, duty free and commercial outlets at T3. In collaboration with Eight Inc, the companies have created an innovative and immersive travel experience, ZOMA, designed to create a sense of place and extend the holiday feeling for passengers. In the ZOMA Zones each store is inspired by the scents, feelings, and flavours of the island. In addition to these outlets, ELR and MMI carefully selected and curated the best retailers from the island to spotlight some of the best that Zanzibar offers.

SEGAP entered into a 10-year technical partnership with Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) to manage and operate Zanzibar and Pemba airports. The consortium will act as a long-term partner to help position Zanzibar as a leading tourism destination, improve airport performance across all fields (including passenger experience, operation, profitability, etc.) and enhance airport infrastructure and services. The consortium will act as one project team for ZAA, covering different airport management and operation aspects.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group and Chairman of Emirates Leisure Retail and MMI, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate the launch of our airport services and retail offering with our partners at Zanzibar’s new, advanced airport terminal.

“We are confident that our investment, alongside our commitment to safety, quality and service excellence, will provide a major positive impact on Zanzibar’s transport, tourism and trade industries. This in turn will deliver significant benefits for the local community and businesses.

“We will continue our efforts to consistently deliver world-class services, earn the trust and loyalty of airline customers and travellers, and be an employer of choice in Zanzibar.” 

Olivier Baric, Egis Aviation Director for Africa, said: “We are delighted to continue our key role in ZAA’s strategic development in cooperation with the airport’s stakeholders, after a successful year of cooperation, where we have contributed to operational improvements to support the growth of tourism in Zanzibar.

“Together and over the next 12 months, we will continue with our endeavours to support the modernisation of facilities, processes and staff needed for Zanzibar to achieve high quality, safety and security services in order for Zanzibar to be recognised as having an international airport that is an outstanding gateway to a destination that has everything to attract visitors, from world-class beaches to a UNESCO World Heritage site.”

dnata: strong, long-term commitment with multi-million US$ investments in people, infrastructure and equipment

To establish operations, dnata has hired and trained over 340 local talent and deployed a fleet of more than 120 pieces of ground support equipment at ZNZ. The company will gradually expand its operations and team, and by 2024 expects to handle more than 4,000 flights annually with a team of over 400 aviation professionals at the airport. 

dnata is also investing in a state-of-the-art facility to offer cargo services at the airport, supporting local trade and businesses. The cargo centre, which is scheduled for completion in 2024, will comply with the highest industry standards ensuring efficient and safe handling of a broad range of cargo, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, live animals, aircraft engines and vehicles.

The dnata Group has been contributing to Zanzibar’s tourism sector through its global travel businesses for decades. In 2022 dnata Travel, a leading travel services provider in the GCC region, facilitated flights, hotel bookings and holiday packages for thousands of travellers to Zanzibar.

SEGAP: supporting Zanzibar Airports Authority (ZAA) in management capacity

SEGAP will provide general airport management and operation services to ZAA, including: improving operational and financial performance, development of airport assets, increasing passenger and cargo traffic, airline route development, best practice and compliance with international standards. SEGAP has also seconded a number of key experts into the airport – including three managers – to work closely with the ZAA teams and facilitate organizational improvements and knowledge transfer. ZAA also benefits from access to Egis’ network of 20 airports across the globe, for knowledge and best-practice sharing across many airport management aspects, and databases for operational performance and benchmarking.

Emirates Leisure Retail: best-in-class outlets designed to boost passenger experience

Emirates Leisure Retail will operate best-in-class outlets with a team of over 130 local culinary and retail professionals at T3, including:

• Curate: a concept store showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of local independent vendors
   
• Spice: a delectable restaurant with a menu inspired by the flavours of Zanzibar
   
• Revive: a relaxing café serving locally roasted Zanzibar Coffee House Beans
   
• Taste: an integrated bar and duty-free experience where passengers can select from a variety of drinks with the possibility of food pairing as well as purchase their preferred beverage brands to enjoy back home
   
• Style: a beauty bar with interactive mirrors to try and buy from popular beauty brands  
   
• Recharge: a welcoming café on arrival serving the house ZOMA blend, roasted on site in Revive

About dnata
dnata is one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers, offering ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 37 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 global aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$632 million.

For more information, please visit dnata.com

About SEGAP
SEGAP is a 50/50 joint venture between airport infrastructure and operations specialists Egis, and private equity fund manager African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM). SEGAP invests in and airport operation and management services to companies in Africa, including AERIA (Ivory Coast), AERCO (Congo) and Zanzibar Airports Authority Ltd. It develops airports by providing expertise in key areas of airport operations, aviation and ancillary services while ensuring safety and quality of service. SEGAP’s mission is to bring its partner airports up to the latest international standards and make air travel in Africa more efficient, accessible and affordable.

https://www.segapairports.com/en/

About Egis
Egis is an international Group active in the consulting, construction engineering and mobility service sectors. We create and operate intelligent infrastructure and buildings capable of responding to the climate emergency and helping to achieve more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development.

With operations in 120 countries, Egis places the expertise of its 16,000 employees at the disposal of its clients and develops cutting-edge innovation accessible to all projects. Through its wide-ranging fields of activity, Egis is a central player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world. 

Egis has over 70 years of experience in Africa with 1500 employees based locally, and a presence in 25 countries.

In the aviation sector, Egis has been dedicated to ensuring safe, seamless and sustainable aviation for all who fly, for over 50 years. Providing innovative consultancy, design and engineering solutions to institutions, ANSPs, airport operators, and airlines through almost every significant change in the industry. Egis specializes in managing and operating small to medium sized airports, with a network of 20 airports in 8 countries across 4 continents.

www.egis-group.com

Linkedin: Egis | Instagram: @egisgroup | Twitter: @egis | Facebook: @egisgroup 

About AIIM
African Infrastructure Investment Managers (AIIM) is the leading infrastructure private equity fund manager in Africa with a 20-year track record extending through seven African infrastructure funds with more than 56 investments across 17 countries. AIIM has USD 2.1 billion in assets under management and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI). The pan-African team of 40 investment professionals is spread across AIIM’s offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Abidjan, Lagos and Nairobi.

www.aiimafrica.com

About Emirates Leisure Retail
Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) owns and operates a wide-ranging portfolio of restaurants, cafes and bars across the Middle East, Australia, Asia, USA and East Africa. Operating more than 300 outlets (including more than 90 outlets across 21 domestic and international airports), ELR has the proven success and capability to drive revenues, deliver operational excellence, and provide a compelling guest experience. ELR’s model ranges from franchise to own-brand development with a unique blend of globally recognized brands and bespoke concepts. ELR is a proud employer of choice, employing a dedicated, diverse and experienced team of more than 2,500 employees from 40 countries.

About Maritime & Mercantile International (MMI)

Maritime & Mercantile International (MMI) is a dynamic import marketing, sales, retail and distribution organisation specialising in beverages, with an extensive portfolio of global brands, supporting its partners in delivering world-class hospitality across its extensive On Trade (restaurants, hotels, bars) network.

MMI owns and operates over 55 retail stores across the UAE and its international business as well as supplies Duty-Free retailers in the region and operates Master Concessionaire projects. MMI is headquartered in Dubai and operates in 42 countries across South and East Africa, Gulf & Middle East, Southern Europe, Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia. 

At every interaction with MMI’s portfolio, events and outlets, the company strives to bring more to the lives of customers and consumers, through innovations such as the award-winning Le Clos Finest Wines and Luxury Spirits retail concept to trend brands and e-commerce.

The foundation stone for the cargo warehouse, which is scheduled for completion in September 2024, was recently revealed by dnata’s Senior Vice President for UAE and Iraq Airport Operations, Jaffar Dawood.

“We are delighted to expand our operations in response to the growing demand for our reliable and safe cargo services in Erbil,” said Jaffar. “Our new facility will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and the latest carbon reduction initiatives in design and operation, ensuring the highest level of operational and environmental efficiency for our customers. We stay committed to the Iraqi aviation industry and continue to invest in our operations to contribute to the development of Erbil as a regional cargo hub.”

dnata’s newest cargo facility will be capable of processing 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including perishables, pharmaceuticals and dangerous goods. dnata will also implement its advanced ‘OneCargo’ system within the facility, digitising processes and maximising efficiencies across its cargo operations in Iraq.

The facility will be equipped with the latest technologies, including thermal insulation to reduce the building’s environmental impact by maintaining low CO2 manufacturing emissions and operating costs. Additional, environmentally sustainable features include a water harvesting system, which recycles condensed water, low energy skylighting, and an all-electric forklift fleet.

dnata’s latest expansion follows the opening of a new, advanced cool chain facility and a bus maintenance facility in 2022 at EBL. The company currently provides ground handling and cargo services to over 25 airlines with a team of over 400 aviation professionals.

In recent years, dnata has also made strategic investments in new cargo facilities in London and Manchester (UK), Karachi and Lahore (Pakistan), and additional cargo capacity and infrastructure in Brussels (Belgium), Sydney (Australia) and Toronto (Canada). In addition, last January the company announced an investment of over €200 million in one of the world’s largest and most advanced cargo facility, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, at Schiphol Airport in The Netherlands.

As one of the world’s leading air and services providers, dnata provides quality and reliable ground handling, cargo, catering and retail services at over 120 airports in 19 countries.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations, who accepted the award on behalf of dnata, said: “Winning this honour for the 12th time is a recognition of our team’s outstanding efforts to consistently deliver world-class services for our airline partners and their customers.  We will continue to invest in our people, infrastructure and equipment to be the best in everything we do.”

Over the past year, dnata has continued to scale up operations to support its airline customers’ increased flight operations across more than 120 airports around the world. This included the opening of new, state-of-the-art cargo centres in London, UK and Erbil, Iraq and the expansion of its existing facility in Dallas, USA. In addition, dnata expanded its cargo operations into Cologne, Germany through a strategic acquisition and announced a major, US$200 million investment in a fully automated cargo centre, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, in The Netherlands. 

dnata also invested in cutting-edge technologies and digitalisation to further enhance efficiencies across its operations. Key milestones include the rollout of its digital cargo management system, OneCargo, the development of a next-generation e-commerce platform, and the launch of autonomous drones in its warehouses. 

dnata has also continued efforts to optimise resources and reduce its environmental footprint across its global network. Most recently, it has installed renewable energy tech, such as solar panels, heat recovery units and electric vehicle charging, at its existing facilities in the UK and Singapore. dnata will also incorporate carbon reduction initiatives in the construction and operation of its new cargo centres in Iraq and The Netherlands.  

dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 37 countries across six continents.  In the first six months of the financial year 2022-23, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled more than 347,000 aircraft turns, moved over 1.35 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 50.5 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 1.3 billion.

Alex Doisneau, Managing Director of dnata UK (Airport Operations) who accepted the award on behalf of dnata globally, said: “We are proud to receive one of the most coveted industry awards for the 8th consecutive time. This global recognition is a testament to our team’s relentless commitment to consistently deliver quality and safe services. We continue to invest in our people, innovation and sustainability to be an employer of choice, and the world’s most admired air and travel services provider.”  

Over the past year, dnata has continued to scale up operations to support its airline customers’ increased flight operations across more than 120 airports around the world.  This included the opening of new, state-of-the-art cargo centres in London, UK and Erbil, Iraq and the expansion of its existing facility in Dallas, USA. In addition, dnata expanded its cargo operations into Cologne, Germany through a strategic acquisition and announced a major, US$200 million investment in a fully automated cargo centre, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, The Netherlands. 

dnata also invested in cutting-edge technologies and digitalisation to further enhance efficiencies across its operations. Key milestones include the rollout of its digital cargo management system, OneCargo, the development of a next-generation e-commerce platform, and the launch of autonomous drones in its warehouses. 

dnata has also continued efforts to optimise resources and reduce its environmental footprint across its global network. Most recently, it has installed renewable energy tech, such as solar panels, heat recovery units and electric vehicle charging, at its existing facilities in the UK and Singapore. dnata will also incorporate carbon reduction initiatives in the construction and operation of its new cargo centres in Iraq and The Netherlands.  

dnata became the first global air and travel services provider to join the IATA 25by2025 initiative that aims to advance gender diversity in the aviation industry. It also enhanced its corporate social responsibility strategy by creating programmes globally that support the health and wellbeing of its employees and communities.   

dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 37 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$632 million. 

The extension of the contract will see dnata continue to provide a range of passenger, ramp and baggage services to the airline, ensuring a seamless airport experience for over 19 million passengers and safe and timely departure of up to 133,000 flights annually across 20 airports in Brazil. 

dnata’s latest contract win cements its position as the leading ground services provider in Brazil.

David Barker, dnata’s Divisional Senior Vice President for Airport Operations, said: “We are proud to extend our successful partnership with GOL Airlines across their extensive Brazilian operations. We will continue to work hard to provide the highest level of quality and safety for the airline and its customers, every day.”

André Cruz, GOL's COO, said: “dnata is an important partner for GOL since 2016, providing excellent services in more than 20 cities in Brazil. This extension strengthens even more our partnership and offers to our customers the best airport experience.”

dnata has recently increased its investment in Brazil to become the sole shareholder of its local subsidiary. In recent years dnata Brazil has significantly expanded its footprint in the country and currently serves more than 15 airlines at 29 airports with a team of 5,000 local aviation professionals.

David Barker added:  “Our increased investment in Brazil underscores our commitment to the South American market, our highly-trained team and global customers. We see excellent growth opportunities and strong demand for our reliable and safe services across the continent. We will seize opportunities to further enhance our offering and consistently deliver world-class quality in Brazil and beyond.

“Globally, we will continue to go the extra mile to be the most admired air and travel services provider and an employer of choice in every market we operate in.“

dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 37 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 632 million.

Syed Haris Raza, Vice President of Gerry’s dnata, said: “Safety continues to be at the heart of everything we do. The achievement of the ISAGO accreditation demonstrates our team’s commitment and ability to consistently deliver excellence in safety. I thank my colleagues for their hard work and dedication.”

Gerry’s dnata has also successfully renewed its ISAGO Registration in Karachi (KHI). In 2019, Gerry’s dnata became the first ground services provider to be awarded the prestigious ISAGO Registration in Pakistan.

ISAGO is an audit program for ground-handling companies serving airlines at airports covering the areas of organization and management, load control, passenger and baggage handling, aircraft handling and loading and aircraft ground movement. It offers benefits to airlines, ground handlers, regulatory as well as airport authorities. These include safer ground operations, fewer accidents and injuries, elimination of redundant audits, reduced costs, less damage and fewer audits, a uniform audit process and harmonized standards, improved safety oversight, harmonized auditor training and qualifications, improved quality standards, and enhanced understanding of high-risk areas within ground operations.

In recent years, Gerry’s dnata has significantly enhanced its operations and services to deliver the highest level of quality and safety and help airline customers safely transport passengers and precious cargo to and from Pakistan. It made significant investments in infrastructure, technology and equipment, including the opening of a new, state-of-the-art cargo facility in Lahore which doubled the company’s cargo handling capacity at the airport.

In addition, Gerry’s dnata obtained Maintenance Organization Approval from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority to provide aircraft line maintenance services to airline customers, and now offers a one-stop-shop of ground handling, cargo and technical services at the airports of Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.

Gerry’s dnata serves more than 20 airline customers at seven Pakistani airports. The company’s team consists of over 2,500 dedicated aviation professionals who assist more than seven million passengers and handle 150,000 tons of cargo annually.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata Group, said: “We’ve been making great progress on reducing our carbon footprint, minimising waste and reducing energy and water consumption across our operations. We will further increase our investments and efforts in strong cooperation with our partners to achieve our targets and preserve the environment for current and future generations.”

Investing in infrastructure and equipment with carbon reduction initiatives at the fore

In recent years dnata has significantly invested in advanced technologies to optimise resources and improve operational efficiency across its facilities. It installed renewable energy features, such as solar panels, heat recovery units and electric vehicle charging, at its existing facilities in the UK, Singapore and Ireland.  The company will also incorporate carbon reduction initiatives in the construction and operation of its recently announced new cargo centres in The Netherlands and Iraq.

Choosing green options is a prime consideration in dnata’s fleet planning, too. It has increased investments in electric and hybrid ramp, ground support (GSE) and forklift equipment, and refurbished existing GSE with new technologies to further decrease emissions and update them to the latest safety and quality standards. As a result, dnata became the first ground handler to successfully complete green aircraft turnarounds using only zero-emission GSE in the USA and UAE.

Reducing food waste through consumption trend analysis 

dnata’s catering team has invested in process improvement to minimise its environmental footprint. It has been working closely with many of its airline customers to analyse consumption trends and use predictive data to optimise the loading of F&B for in-flight catering. Analysis of on-board data not only reduces food waste but also fuel burn associated with carrying excess weight. In addition, where possible dnata catering sources and supplies local produce to reduce the food miles associated with menus.

dnata has also taken initiatives across its business units to conserve water consumption and recycle materials, such as paper, plastic, cardboard, wood, glass, metal, used cooking and mineral oils. Earlier this year, the company committed to reducing its waste to landfill by 20% by 2024. 

Promoting sustainable travel

dnata has embedded its environmental framework across its broad-spanning Travel businesses, aiming to empower customers to make better travel choices. Its corporate services include hybrid event solutions, sustainable travel policy guidance as well as carbon emission monitoring and reporting, aligned to global standards.

dnata Travel Group in the UK has invested in green technologies and introduced new business practices to improve environmental efficiency. It switched to renewable energy to take all electricity from green sources at all of its offices, cut out single-use plastic (SUP) from its operations, reduced paper consumption by 4 million pages annually through its ‘paperless office’ initiative, and implemented a zero to landfill policy to ensure that all non-recyclable waste is sent to energy recovery facilities for processing. Furthermore, it replaced 80% of its fleet with electric or hybrid cars with a target to operate a fully green fleet by 2024.

Mobilising global teams to make a difference

dnata engages and mobilises its employees through its corporate social responsibility programme, dnata4good, to make a positive difference. This May, hundreds of dnata employees around the world teamed up and took part in the company initiative ‘dnata cleans the world’. dnata’s volunteers cleaned beaches, rivers, canals and parks in dozens of countries across the globe.

dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in 36 countries across six continents. In the financial year 2021-22, dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled over 527,000 aircraft turns, moved 3 million tonnes of cargo, uplifted 39.9 million meals, and recorded a total transaction value (TTV) of travel services of US$ 632 million.