Dubai Air Navigation Services, Emirates Airline, and Thales sign Collaborative Research Agreement to advance flight efficiency through innovative solutions

Dubai, November 21. Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS), Emirates Airline and technology major Thales have entered into a Collaborative Research Agreement to develop new solutions aimed at reducing airborne holding times at Dubai International Airport and improving overall airspace efficiency in the UAE.

The initiative seeks to cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions by minimising the need for aircraft to circle in holding patterns during peak arrivals – a practice that ensures safety and orderly sequencing but adds to congestion and environmental impact. The project aligns closely with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions.

As part of the agreement, the three organisations will jointly explore the use of advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to better predict traffic bottlenecks, offer real-time recommendations to operators, and support air traffic controllers in smoothing flight flows. The research is expected to enhance predictability, reduce delays and strengthen the resilience of the country’s increasingly busy airspace.

Thales will contribute expertise in digital technologies and air traffic management systems.

“This partnership will allow us to strengthen the UAE’s airspace management technologies and support the vision of a more secure, connected and sustainable aviation sector,” said Abdelhafid Mordi, Vice President of Thales in the UAE and Iraq and CEO of Thales Emarat Technologies.

Adel Al Redha, Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer of Emirates Airline, said the agreement demonstrates how AI can address real-world operational challenges.

“By predicting congestion and adjusting cruise speeds proactively, we can reduce fuel burn and optimise operational efficiency. If successful, this solution could benefit airlines globally,” he added.