Emirates readies to operate freighters at Dubai World Central

Emirates SkyCargo is on track for its move to Dubai World Central (DWC) with the first phase of the building being finished.

Starting May 1, all 12 freighters will operate from the new cargo terminal.

The cross-docks and perishables areas have been fully completed. The cargo handling system and interiors are due to be finalized shortly.

With the conclusion of the first construction phase, Emirates SkyCargo is starting to test facilities and trucking operations between DWC and Dubai International Airport. Initially, operations will start with 250 employees, which will be increased to 500 upon full operation of the entire terminal.

“The move of our freighter operations to DWC provides us with the opportunity to have a dedicated facility for our freighters with the required infrastructure, space and the opportunity to further expand and meet our customers’ needs. The new terminal and facilities is a key part of our growth plans. With almost two million tonnes of cargo being processed per year at Dubai International Airport, the new facility enables us to increase our capacity addressing SkyCargo’s long-term requirements,” said Dave Gould, senior vice president cargo operations worldwide. “The freighters will be handled exclusively from DWC while passenger fleet belly cargo operations will continue to operate from Dubai International Airport with the service quality remaining at its well-known high standard.”

Upon full completion, the terminal will be equipped to handle 700,000 tonnes per year, with the potential to reach 1 million tonnes. The new Emirates SkyCargo terminal will feature an automated material handling, an automated pallet handling system, offices and workstation areas.

The terminal also includes 46 truck docks and 80 truck parking spaces, in addition to 12 aircraft stands directly in front of the terminal.