DUBAI- Emirates (EK) Flight Catering executed a comprehensive fleet modernisation agreement on May 29, 2025. It secured 53 new aircraft catering trucks through a strategic partnership with Mallaghan, Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company, and Volvo.
The Dubai-based operation invested AED 60 million (USD $16 million) in this initial procurement phase, establishing the foundation for extensive ground fleet renewal across 5 years.
Photo- EmiratesEmirates Flight Catering
The catering provider structured this investment as part of an ambitious program to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles within the specified timeframe.
EKFC will integrate 92 aircraft catering trucks into operations within twelve months, with initial vehicle deployments scheduled for later in 2025.
The newly acquired Volvo FL 250 4X2 Euro 6 aircraft catering trucks incorporate sophisticated sensor technology and comprehensive monitoring systems. It is designed to optimise ground operations efficiency during loading and unloading processes.
These vehicles utilise cutting-edge Euro diesel engine technology, achieving significant emissions reductions compared to previous generation equipment.
Photo: Dubai International AirportEKFC Fleet Modernisation
EKFC’s fleet modernisation extends beyond conventional diesel-powered vehicles through collaboration with manufacturing partners on breakthrough electric vehicle technology.
The organisation will deploy the region’s first electric aircraft catering truck as part of a comprehensive Proof-of-Concept initiative.
This will position Dubai International Airport (DXB) at the forefront of sustainable aviation ground support equipment innovation.
The electric aircraft catering truck undergoes specialised optimisation for Dubai International’s unique operational requirements. It establishes EKFC as a pioneer in testing and prototyping advanced ground support technologies.
This initiative creates the groundwork for complete fleet electrification and automation in future operational phases, with the electric unit expected to commence operations during summer 2026.
Photo: Dubai International AirportExecutive Remarks
Chief Executive Officer Shahreyar Nawabi emphasised the fleet modernisation’s strategic importance within EKFC’s broader operational enhancement initiatives.
The CEO highlighted EKFC’s confidence in Dubai’s aviation sector growth prospects and market leadership sustainability.
Nawabi stressed the organisation’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies through partnerships with Mallaghan and Volvo Trucks. This will enable progression toward complete fleet electrification while maintaining superior operational performance standards.
Photo- Emirates Flight Catering (Facebook)Industry Partnership
Mallaghan Chief Executive Officer, Ronan Mallaghan, described the collaboration as a landmark achievement representing the company’s largest high loader order delivery to EKFC. Mallaghan emphasised the partnership’s alignment with shared commitments to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable aviation ground support advancement.
The introduction of the region’s first electric high loader marks significant progress toward broader electrification and modernisation of airport operations across the Gulf Cooperation Council territories. This development establishes precedent for sustainable technology adoption throughout the regional aviation industry.
Al-Futtaim Industrial Equipment Managing Director Ramez Hamdan characterised the agreement as a milestone achievement in FAMCO’s sustainability journey. Hamdan emphasised the partnership’s dual impact through enhanced fleet capability.
The collaboration delivers a measurable environmental impact through 52 advanced Euro 6 trucks. This is alongside the pioneering electric vehicle introduction at Dubai Airport (DXB). This initiative establishes new regional standards for green mobility and operational excellence across Middle Eastern aviation operations.
Emirates Al Maktoum Airport; Photo: Compounded by Aviation A2ZMarket Positioning
Volvo Trucks Middle East & Turkey Acting Managing Director Christine Sandgren expressed pride in serving as EKFC’s trusted partner for future operational expansion at Dubai International (DXB) and the planned Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) facility.
Sandgren characterised the agreement as a strong endorsement of Volvo Trucks’ sustainable transport solutions commitment and core values encompassing quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.
The partnership with long-standing collaborator FAMCO provides essential on-ground support capabilities instrumental to successful implementation.
Together, these organisations drive measurable progress through alternative fuel innovation and automation advancement. This will contribute to resilient and environmentally responsible transport ecosystem development throughout the Middle East.
Photo- EmiratesFuture Expansion Context
EKFC currently maintains one of the world’s largest aircraft catering truck fleets. It operates 300 vehicles that ensure superior aircraft handling standards for quality in-flight dining experiences.
The organisation serves more than 100 airline customers at Dubai International Airport (DXB). It maintains the highest operational performance levels across this demanding environment.
Emirates Flight Catering operates the world’s largest culinary facility of its type, spanning 160,000 square meters with production capacity exceeding 250,000 meals daily.
The operation serves more than 100 airline customers in Dubai while providing comprehensive services, including event catering, specialised food production, and lounge catering services.
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The post Emirates Adds 53 New Aircraft Catering Trucks appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
