The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
DUBAI / WAM
The Airport Show, in its 24th edition, will be held from 6th to 8th May at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing the latest ground handling technologies under one roof to serve global airports aiming to enhance their services, profitability, and adherence to globally recognised standards for reducing their carbon footprint.
The event is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.
More than 130 international exhibitors from 22 countries are expected to participate, showcasing the latest developments in ground handling services.
According to the organisers, airports in the region are investing hundreds of millions of dollars to enhance infrastructure and modern facilities, which are considered among the best globally — particularly in acquiring electric ground support equipment as part of sustainability agendas and carbon emission reduction.
Electric ground support equipment is one of the most prominent sectors contributing to improved airport performance, profitability, and readiness to accommodate the significant expected increase in passenger numbers in the coming years.
The exhibition includes several pavilions, including one dedicated to the latest ground handling equipment and services, supported by dnata, and two pavilions focused on airport technology and design.
In addition, the event will feature specialised conferences and workshops, including the Global Airport Leaders Forum, the Airport Security Middle East Conference, and the Women in Aviation Middle East Conference.
Mai Ismail, Events Director at RX Global, which organises more than 350 international events in 25 countries, including the Airport Show, said the pursuit of faster turnaround times, improved safety standards, and environmental compliance has led to the adoption of innovative and cost-effective ground handling equipment solutions.
She added that airport operators are investing in battery-powered vehicles to reduce emissions and carbon footprints. Electric ground handling equipment has revolutionised ground operations by offering cleaner, more energy-efficient technologies. With advances in electric technology and lower battery costs, airports are expected to widely adopt electric equipment, indicating strong market growth.
For his part, Jafar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata, said, “Our fleet strategy focuses on phasing out diesel engines and transitioning to electric, hybrid, or hydrogen-powered equipment. We are working closely with alternative fuel suppliers and have recently converted our entire non-electric fleet in Dubai to biodiesel. These efforts support our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint by 50 percent by 2030, as part of our eight-year operations strategy.”
Adam Vaile, Executive Director for Commercial and Accounts Airports at Vanderlande, one of the exhibiting companies, said the company will highlight its latest technological developments and the benefits of comprehensive baggage and passenger operations.
In 2022, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for a transition to improved electrical equipment to enhance cost efficiency and safety.
In June 2024, dnata launched an initiative to accelerate the adoption of improved equipment through the Enhanced Recognition Programme, which honours ground handlers leading fleet modernisation. More than 130 airports worldwide have committed to fully decarbonising their emissions by 2030.
The market for electric ground handling services is expected to grow from 38,592 units in 2024 to 44,761 units by 2029. The global market size for this industry is expected to reach US$17.44 billion by 2032.