In a significant move to bolster operational efficiency and reinforce its sustainability goals, dnata—a global leader in air services—has announced an investment of $110 million to acquire 800 new units of ground support equipment (GSE) for deployment in 2025. This expansion aligns with dnata’s long-term strategic growth and decarbonization plan across its global network.
🚀 Scaling Up Globally
The new GSE units will be rolled out across 10 countries, with priority allocation to UAE, Brazil, Italy, the USA, and Singapore. This reflects dnata’s focus on enhancing capabilities in both mature and emerging aviation markets. The investment is part of a $210 million procurement framework signed with top-tier manufacturers in 2024.
“We are investing in next-generation equipment to maintain high performance while lowering emissions,” said Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO of Airport Operations at dnata.
📊 Key Data Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment (2025) | $110 million |
| Units of GSE to be Acquired | 800 |
| Countries of Deployment | 10 (focus: UAE, Brazil, Italy, USA, Singapore) |
| Global Procurement Framework | $210 million (signed in 2024 with leading manufacturers) |
| Fleet Electrification | >40% electric in key markets |
| Non-Electric Fleet (Dubai) | 100% transitioned to biodiesel |
| Sustainability Focus | Electric, hybrid, hydrogen-powered GSE; diesel engines being phased out |
| Operational Objective | Support global growth and reduce carbon footprint |
| CEO Statement | Commitment to green operations without compromising performance |
♻️ Sustainability in Motion
dnata is not just expanding; it is transforming how it operates:
- 40% of the GSE fleet in key markets is already electric.
- In Dubai, all non-electric units have transitioned to biodiesel, a key interim solution in the path to net-zero.
- The fleet strategy is based on tailored deployment of electric, hybrid, and hydrogen technologies to suit regional operational needs.
This move supports dnata’s broader environmental strategy of phasing out diesel engines and increasing the use of renewable energy sources in logistics and ground handling operations.
🌐 A Model for Greener Ground Operations
With airside operations being a significant contributor to aviation emissions, dnata’s fleet renewal demonstrates industry leadership. The investment marks a step toward greener airport ecosystems, offering a template for sustainable GSE deployment for other global service providers.
✈️ Looking Ahead
dnata’s $110 million airside fleet overhaul sets a clear direction for the future of aviation support services—combining growth, efficiency, and sustainability. As the aviation industry seeks to reduce its environmental impact, such large-scale investments in green technology are no longer optional—they’re imperative.
Glottis Limited 
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