Emirates Flight Catering Modernizes With an Investment in 53 New Aircraft Catering Trucks

Emirates has today announced that Emirates Flight Catering has advanced their fleet modernization program with an investment in 53 catering vehicles, in a deal valued at AED 60 million (US $16 million).

Emirates Announces Investment in 53 new Airline Catering Trucks, in a Deal valued at AED 60 Million (US $16 Million) - Courtesy Emirates

On Thursday (May 29, 2025), Emirates announced that Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) had advanced their fleet modernization program with an investment in 53 new catering trucks, valued at AED 60 million (US $16 million).  This deal represents EKFC’s largest single order for aircraft catering trucks in partnership with Mallaghan, using Volvo chassis supported locally by Al-Futtaim Auto and Machinery Company (FAMCO).  EKFC is also working with partners on a Proof of Concept (POC) for electric catering trucks, a first in the region.  The new generation of catering trucks will offer enhanced operational capabilities, underscoring the company’s sustainability efforts.  This is part of Emirates extensive ground fleet renewal programme, under which EKFC plans to introduce 120 next-generation vehicles over five years, with 92 aircraft catering trucks to be added over the next 12 months. 

In Thursday’s announcement, Emirates Flight Catering’s CEO, Shahreyar Nawabi, said,

“We are excited to embark on the complete modernisation of our fleet of aircraft catering trucks. This fleet investment is a key part of our broader strategy to implement industry leading initiatives, keep pace with ever-growing demand, and strengthen EKFC’s value proposition to our airline customers as a dedicated culinary partner delivering exceptional operational performance at our busy Dubai hub.  It also reflects our strong confidence in the long-term growth prospects and continued market leadership of Dubai's aviation sector.

“We’re also investing in the latest technologies and working closely with Mallaghan and Volvo Trucks to empower a future towards a fully electrified aircraft catering truck fleet, enabling us to reduce our carbon footprint while continuing to deliver top-notch operational performance on the ground.  The integration of the first electric aircraft catering truck next summer will mark a milestone for EKFC, reinforcing our commitment to more sustainable operations and pushing the boundaries of innovation.”

Also commenting on the catering truck collaboration, Mallaghan’s CEO, Ronan Mallaghan, said,

“We are pleased to partner with Emirates Flight Catering in this landmark fleet renewal, delivering its largest ever order of high loaders and introducing the first electric high loader of its kind to the region.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and a more sustainable future for aviation ground support.  The inclusion of a Proof-Of-Concept electric unit marks an exciting step toward the broader electrification and modernisation of airport operations across the GCC.”

Further commenting on the partnership, Al-Futtaim Industrial Equipment’s Managing Director, Ramez Hamdan, said,

“Securing this milestone agreement with Emirates Flight Catering marks a proud chapter in FAMCO’s journey toward a more sustainable future.  By partnering to introduce the region’s first electric Volvo truck at Dubai Airport, alongside 52 advanced Euro 6 trucks, we are not just enhancing fleet capability, we are delivering on ESG priorities through real-world impact: reducing emissions, promoting responsible logistics, and enabling long-term value.  Together, we’re setting a new standard for green mobility and operational excellence in the region.”

Volvo Trucks’ Acting managing Director, Christine Sandgren, added,

“We are proud to be the trusted partner to Emirates Flight Catering as they prepare for the future expansion of operations in DXB and later at Al Maktoum Airport.  This agreement is a strong endorsement of Volvo Trucks’ commitment to sustainable transport solutions and our core values of quality, safety, and environmental care.  Together with our long-standing partner FAMCO, whose dedication and on-ground support have been instrumental, we are driving real progress through innovation in alternative fuels and automation.  These are not just technological advancements; they are vital steps toward building a more resilient and environmentally responsible transport ecosystem in the Middle East.”

EKFC’s new Volvo F: 250 4X2 Euro 6 aircraft catering trucks will feature advanced sensors and monitoring systems to enhance efficiencies, while reducing overall emissions with the adoption of the latest Euro diesel engine technologies.  As previously mentioned, EKFC will also collaborate with their GSE partners to develop a Proof-of-Concept electric aircraft catering truck, which will be optimized for ground catering operations at Dubai International Airport.  The first electric aircraft catering truck is expected to  enter service by summer 2026.

Currently, EKFC operates a fleet of 300 aircraft catering trucks, one of the largest fleets in the world, ensuring the highest level of service to deliver an elevated dining experience for more over 100 airline customers at Dubai International Airport (DXB).  Emirates Flight Catering is also the largest culinary facility of its kind, covering 160,000 square-meters, with a production capacity of over 250,000 meals daily, for airlines, as well as events catering, food production and lounge catering services. 

Source: Emirates