dnata’s global fleet upgrade to include hybrid, electric and autonomous ground support units.
Dubai: Airport ground operations are shifting towards electric and autonomous equipment, with dnata investing $110 million in 800 new ground support units across 10 countries and testing self-driving baggage vehicles in the UAE.
The investment comes as airports prepare for continued growth in passenger numbers, with global air traffic projected to surpass 12 billion passengers by 2030. The Middle East, North Africa and South Asia are expected to account for a significant share of this growth.
Airports are also increasing spending on automation, digital systems and lower-emission equipment to improve the movement of passengers, baggage and aircraft through terminals and across airport aprons.
“Ground handling is entering an important period of transformation, driven by new technology, evolving customer expectations and the industry’s collective commitment to sustainability,” said Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata.
800 new ground support units
dnata is deploying 800 new ground support equipment units across its global network as part of the $110 million investment.
The company is gradually replacing diesel-powered equipment with hybrid and electric alternatives while expanding the use of automation across its ground operations.
In the UAE, dnata has begun trials of TractEasy EZTow autonomous baggage equipment, designed to reduce manual processes while improving safety and operational efficiency on the ramp.
“We continue to explore and adopt new technologies that will help us build smarter, more efficient operations today, while preparing for the future needs of Al Maktoum International Airport,” Dawood said.
dnata said the adoption of hybrid, electric and autonomous equipment is part of its broader programme to modernise ground-handling operations and improve efficiency and sustainability.
Electric and autonomous equipment gains ground
Ground support equipment used around aircraft is increasingly shifting towards electric, connected and autonomous technologies.
Electric baggage tractors, belt loaders and passenger stairs are becoming more common, while autonomous tow tractors and baggage vehicles are being introduced to reduce manual handling and improve operational efficiency.
Airports are also adopting IoT technology for real-time equipment tracking, asset management and predictive maintenance, while AI-powered systems are being developed to streamline cargo loading and unloading operations.
The global ground support equipment market is projected to reach $19.77 billion by 2034.
“We are also advancing automation across our operations. In the UAE, we have commenced trials of TractEasy EZTow autonomous baggage, helping reduce manual processes while enhancing safety and efficiency on the ramp,” Dawood said.
Airport technology extends beyond the terminal
The transformation taking place airside is part of a broader shift in airport operations.
High-speed fibre networks, private 5G, artificial intelligence, robotics and automated baggage systems are being deployed alongside automated gates and self-service facilities, helping airports create more connected and efficient operations.
By 2030, airport terminals are expected to increasingly adopt flexible infrastructure, connected systems and lower-emission technologies to accommodate rising passenger volumes and improve the overall travel experience.
Dubai event highlights ground operations
These developments will be showcased at Airport Show 2026, taking place from October 12 to 14 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
A dedicated GSE Zone will highlight electric, smart and autonomous ground support equipment, bringing together companies specialising in baggage handling, airside transport, automation and other airport technologies.
More than 150 exhibitors and 150 buyers from over 20 countries are expected to participate, alongside more than 7,000 visitors from more than 30 countries.
The event will also feature the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum, Airport Security Middle East, Air Traffic Control Forum and the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference.
