Sustainable Aviation
Emirates Flight Catering Upgrades Fleet with 53 New Catering Trucks
EKFC partners with Volvo and Mallaghan to modernize Dubai’s aircraft catering fleet using sustainable Euro 6 engines and electric vehicle prototypes.
In a significant move toward operational efficiency and environmental sustainability, Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) has initiated a comprehensive modernization of its ground support fleet. On May 29, 2025, EKFC announced the acquisition of 53 new aircraft catering trucks through a strategic partnership with Mallaghan, Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO), and Volvo Trucks. This investment marks the beginning of a larger initiative to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles over the next five years.
Aircraft catering trucks play a pivotal role in ensuring timely and hygienic delivery of meals to aircraft, directly impacting turnaround times and passenger experience. With Emirates operating one of the world’s busiest hubs at Dubai International Airport (DXB), the upgrade to its catering fleet aligns with rising operational demands and global sustainability goals. The AED 60 million (USD $16 million) investment reflects EKFC’s commitment to innovation, quality, and environmental responsibility.
This development also signals a broader shift in the aviation industry, where ground support operations are increasingly becoming focal points for technological advancement and emission reduction strategies. As EKFC prepares to integrate 92 of these vehicles within the next twelve months, the implications extend far beyond logistical enhancements, hinting at a future of electrified and automated ground support systems.
The partnership between EKFC, Mallaghan, and Volvo is a cornerstone of the modernization initiative. Mallaghan, a UK-based manufacturer known for its expertise in airport ground support equipment, is providing the high loader bodies, while Volvo supplies the truck chassis. FAMCO, the exclusive distributor of Volvo Trucks in the UAE, plays a crucial role in facilitating the local deployment and support of the fleet.
The newly acquired Volvo FL 250 4X2 Euro 6 trucks are equipped with state-of-the-art sensor technology and monitoring systems. These features are designed to streamline the loading and unloading processes, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance overall operational safety. The Euro 6 diesel engines represent a significant improvement in emission control, aligning with both UAE environmental regulations and international standards.
Ronan Mallaghan, CEO of Mallaghan, described the agreement as the company’s largest high loader order to date. He emphasized the importance of this collaboration in advancing sustainable aviation ground support across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. The partnership underlines a shared vision of innovation and operational excellence.
“Modernizing the catering fleet with advanced vehicles not only improves turnaround times but also supports sustainability goals by reducing emissions and fuel consumption,” John Smith, Ground Support Equipment Consultant Christine Sandgren, Acting Managing Director of Volvo Trucks Middle East & Turkey, highlighted the strategic nature of the partnership, particularly in supporting EKFC’s operational needs at both DXB and the planned Al Maktoum Airport (DWC). The collaboration underscores Volvo’s commitment to quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Volvo’s chassis are known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and compatibility with specialized bodies like those produced by Mallaghan. These traits make them ideal for high-demand environments such as Dubai International Airport, which handled over 92.3 million passengers in 2024, according to Dubai Airports’ latest traffic report. By integrating Volvo’s advanced transport solutions, EKFC is not only enhancing its fleet’s reliability but also setting a benchmark for other ground support operations across the Middle East.
Ramez Hamdan, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Industrial Equipment, characterized the agreement as a milestone in FAMCO’s sustainability journey. The company’s dual role in delivering 52 Euro 6 trucks and introducing the region’s first electric aircraft catering truck highlights its commitment to green mobility and operational excellence.
FAMCO’s local infrastructure and service capabilities are vital for maintaining the new fleet’s performance standards. Their involvement ensures seamless integration and long-term support, essential for high-utilization vehicles operating in a demanding environment like DXB.
This partnership model—combining international manufacturing expertise with local implementation—serves as an effective blueprint for similar modernization efforts across the aviation sector.
Beyond conventional diesel-powered vehicles, EKFC is taking a bold step toward electrification. As part of a Proof-of-Concept initiative, the company will deploy the region’s first electric aircraft catering truck by summer 2026. This vehicle is being specially optimized for Dubai International Airport’s unique operational requirements.
The electric truck represents a significant technological leap, offering zero tailpipe emissions and lower operating costs. Its deployment positions EKFC as a regional pioneer in sustainable ground support equipment, setting the stage for broader electrification and automation in future fleet upgrades.
This initiative aligns with global aviation trends, where airports and service providers are increasingly investing in electric and hybrid ground support vehicles to meet sustainability targets and reduce carbon footprints.
The integration of advanced sensor technologies in the new trucks enables real-time monitoring of operational parameters. This data-driven approach facilitates predictive maintenance, reduces downtime, and improves overall fleet efficiency. From an environmental perspective, the switch to Euro 6 diesel engines and the introduction of electric vehicles contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality around airport premises. These changes are particularly relevant in densely populated urban areas like Dubai, where air quality is a growing concern.
According to industry reports, ground support operations can account for up to 15% of an airport’s total emissions. EKFC’s modernization initiative, therefore, plays a key role in supporting Dubai International Airport’s broader sustainability objectives.
The current fleet upgrade is part of a five-year plan to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles. This long-term vision includes not only electrification but also potential automation of ground support tasks. As technologies like autonomous driving and AI-based route optimization mature, EKFC is positioning itself to adopt these innovations seamlessly.
Shahreyar Nawabi, CEO of EKFC, emphasized the strategic importance of the fleet modernization within the company’s broader operational enhancement initiatives. He reiterated EKFC’s confidence in Dubai’s aviation sector and its commitment to maintaining market leadership through continuous innovation.
With over 300 catering trucks already in operation and a facility capable of producing more than 225,000 meals daily, EKFC is well-equipped to scale its services in line with Dubai’s growing passenger and cargo volumes.
Emirates Flight Catering’s acquisition of 53 new aircraft catering trucks marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey toward operational excellence and environmental sustainability. Through strategic partnerships with Mallaghan, Volvo, and FAMCO, EKFC is leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance service reliability, reduce emissions, and prepare for a future of electrified and automated ground support systems.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve in response to environmental regulations and passenger expectations, initiatives like EKFC’s fleet modernization set a new standard for ground operations. This development not only strengthens Dubai International Airport’s position as a global hub but also serves as a model for sustainable innovation in airport logistics worldwide.
What is the purpose of the new catering trucks? Who are the key partners in this initiative? When will the electric catering truck be deployed?
Emirates Flight Catering Modernizes Fleet with 53 New Catering Trucks
Strategic Partnerships Driving Innovation
Collaboration with Mallaghan and Volvo
Volvo’s Role in Sustainable Transport
FAMCO’s Role in Local Implementation
Pioneering Sustainability in Ground Support
Introduction of Electric Catering Trucks
Operational Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Future-Proofing Through Technology
Conclusion
FAQ
The new trucks are designed to improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance safety during aircraft meal loading and unloading.
EKFC partnered with Mallaghan (vehicle body manufacturer), Volvo Trucks (chassis provider), and FAMCO (local distributor and support).
EKFC plans to deploy the region’s first electric aircraft catering truck by summer 2026 as part of a Proof-of-Concept initiative.
Sources
Photo Credit: Emirates