The self-driving electric baggage tractors on trial at Dubai's Al Maktoum International Airport. DWC

Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) has launched a fleet of self-driving electric baggage tractors as part of a Dh6 million investment in next-gen airport automation. Aviation services provider dnata confirmed on Tuesday that six autonomous EZTow tractors, developed by TractEasy, are now operational at DWC. The AI-powered tractors can tow up to four baggage containers at speeds of 15 km/h along pre-mapped routes. “This is an important step forward for both dnata and the wider aviation industry,” said Jaffar Dawood, Divisional Senior Vice President of UAE Airport Operations at dnata. “As global travel rebounds and operational demands increase, automation will help us build smarter and safer infrastructure.” The initiative is part of Dubai’s broader push to transform DWC into the world’s largest airport, capable of serving up to 260 million passengers annually. The smart tractors are initially semi-autonomous and will transition to full autonomy by early 2026. Rich Reno, CEO of TractEasy, said, “Autonomous GSE (ground support equipment) adoption is taking off. This move brings us closer to full-scale rollout globally.” Beyond baggage handling, the trials will provide valuable insights for future autonomous airport models. ICA/Expat Media
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