dnata Rolls Out Self-Driving Vehicles at Dubai World Central
dnata has introduced a fleet of autonomous electric vehicles at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), marking a significant step in ground handling innovation. The deployment includes six EZTow electric tractors, developed by TractEasy. These vehicles can tow up to four baggage containers at a speed of 15 km/h along pre-mapped airside routes. This initiative is a major component of dnata’s strategy to streamline airport operations and improve turnaround efficiency.
Importantly, this transition allows ground staff to focus on more complex roles, rather than routine driving tasks. By replacing traditional baggage tractors with autonomous units, dnata aims to reduce human error and enhance ramp safety. As operations progress, the new fleet is expected to contribute to faster aircraft servicing, creating a more responsive airside environment.
Setting a New Standard for Ground Handling
Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President for UAE Airport Operations at dnata, stated, “This is an important step forward for both dnata and the wider aviation industry. While autonomous vehicles have largely been limited to trials, this deployment brings the technology into regular, day-to-day operations.”
Initially launched with Level 3 autonomy, the vehicles operate with limited human oversight. dnata plans to transition to Level 4 autonomy by early 2026, which will enable fully self-driving operations within the airport’s controlled airside environment. This shift is not just technological it sets a regulatory precedent. The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) worked alongside dnata and TractEasy to help define a regulatory framework for autonomous operations.
A Blueprint for Future Expansion
The AED 6 million ($1.6 million) initiative serves as a live testbed for refining autonomous ground models. As Dubai World Central continues to expand, these insights will shape future deployments. Once completed, DWC is expected to become the world’s largest airport, managing up to 260 million passengers and 12 million tons of cargo annually.
Rich Reno, CEO of TractEasy, commented, “Autonomous GSE adoption is taking off. TractEasy is proud and excited to partner with an industry leader like dnata and blaze a safe and efficient autonomous trail for others to follow.”
This rollout is part of dnata’s wider innovation roadmap. Previously, the company trialed autonomous drones for warehouse inventory management. That pilot significantly reduced processing time and improved tracking accuracy.
Although autonomous ground support equipment is still under trial in over 15 countries, dnata’s full-scale deployment stands out. With this move, the UAE positions itself at the forefront of next-generation airport infrastructure, paving the way for broader global adoption.
