Dubai, May 30 - Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC), a leading global provider of in-flight catering and support services based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, has taken a significant step toward modernizing its ground operations by investing AED 60 million (approximately USD 16 million) in the acquisition of 53 advanced aircraft catering trucks. This investment is a cornerstone of EKFC’s ambitious fleet renewal program, which aims to enhance operational efficiency, meet growing demand, and advance sustainability goals at Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The initiative underscores EKFC’s commitment to maintaining its position as a global leader in aircraft catering and ground handling services while aligning with the broader vision of Dubai’s aviation sector for innovation and environmental responsibility.
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The agreement, signed with Mallaghan, Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO), and Volvo Trucks, marks EKFC’s largest-ever order for aircraft catering trucks. These 53 new vehicles, which include 52 advanced Volvo FL 250 4X2 Euro 6 trucks, are equipped with cutting-edge sensors and monitoring systems designed to streamline ground operations, particularly for loading and unloading catering supplies. The adoption of the latest Euro diesel engine technologies in these trucks will also contribute to reducing overall emissions, aligning with global standards for environmental performance. Additionally, the order builds on a previous commitment for 40 trucks from other partners, bringing the total number of new catering trucks to be integrated into EKFC’s fleet within the next 12 months to 92. This significant expansion is part of a broader five-year plan to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles, with the first of these trucks expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
A key highlight of this initiative is EKFC’s collaboration with Mallaghan, FAMCO, and Volvo Trucks to develop a Proof-of-Concept electric aircraft catering truck, a regional first in sustainable aviation catering equipment. Expected to begin operating by the summer of 2026, this electric vehicle will be optimized for ground catering operations at Dubai International Airport. The introduction of this electric truck positions EKFC at the forefront of testing and prototyping innovative technologies, laying the foundation for emission-free ground catering operations through fleet electrification and automation. This move reflects EKFC’s proactive approach to reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining exceptional operational performance.
EKFC currently manages one of the world’s largest catering truck fleets, with 300 high-loader trucks, including 89 specialized vehicles for the Airbus A380. The company serves over 100 airline customers at Dubai International Airport, producing an average of 225,000 meals daily at its state-of-the-art 160,000-square-meter facility. The fleet modernization program not only enhances EKFC’s capacity to handle the increasing volume of flights but also strengthens its value proposition as a dedicated culinary partner. By investing in advanced technology and sustainable practices, EKFC is poised to support the long-term growth of Dubai’s aviation sector while setting new standards for efficiency and environmental responsibility in ground handling services.