DUBAI: dnata, a global air and travel services provider, has launched a fleet of autonomous electric vehicles at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), in a major leap toward automating ground handling operations. This rollout introduces next-generation ramp technology in one of aviation’s most labour- and time-intensive areas.
The deployment includes six EZTow electric tractors developed by TractEasy, now operating at DWC. These driverless vehicles can tow up to four baggage containers (ULDs) at 15 km/h, navigating pre-defined routes to enhance efficiency. Traditionally, human drivers were responsible for baggage transfers under time pressure; the new autonomous system streamlines this process, improving safety and turnaround times.
As these autonomous vehicles become integrated, dnata plans to reassign staff from manual tasks to more skilled roles. The use of automation not only boosts productivity but significantly reduces human error in airside operations.
The AED 6 million (US$ 1.6 million) project began with Level 3 autonomy—allowing minimal human oversight—and is expected to advance to Level 4, enabling full autonomy, by early 2026.
This initiative also serves as a live trial for refining autonomous airport models. With DWC set to become the world’s largest airport, dnata’s pioneering project could influence automation standards globally. The insights gained will support future airport infrastructures designed with automation at their core.
“This is an important step forward for both dnata and the wider aviation industry,” said Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata. “This marks a transition from trial to daily operations, paving the way for smarter, safer infrastructure as global travel rebounds.”
TractEasy’s CEO, Rich Reno, added, “We are proud to partner with dnata in pioneering safe and efficient autonomous solutions.”
Autonomous ground support equipment is being trialled globally, but dnata’s operational rollout at scale puts it at the forefront of innovation. The move follows successful drone integration in dnata warehouses, which improved cargo accuracy and processing speed.
The project involved over a year of collaboration with TractEasy, Dubai Airports, and the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, working together to establish new airside regulations for autonomous systems—marking a significant milestone in aviation technology.
