Emirates SkyCargo introduces dedicated service for AI infrastructure shipments
Emirates SkyCargo has launched AI Tech, a specialised air freight service designed to transport the high-value and sensitive hardware used in artificial intelligence infrastructure, including server racks, semiconductors, graphics processing units and manufacturing equipment.
The new product combines priority loading, dedicated cargo handling procedures and shipment monitoring through the airline’s command centre in Dubai. It is intended to support technology companies moving equipment between manufacturing facilities and international markets, particularly when shipments involve strict delivery schedules or complex handling requirements.
The launch follows growing demand for the movement of AI-related equipment across the airline’s global network. According to Emirates SkyCargo, it transported more than 700 tonnes of AI infrastructure in July 2026 alone, reflecting the scale of an emerging segment of the air cargo market.
AI Tech is available across the carrier’s network for most categories of AI-related cargo, while shipments involving highly specialised manufacturing equipment require advance assessments of airport handling capabilities.
Dedicated handling for sensitive technology cargo
The service introduces standardised handling procedures intended to maintain equipment orientation and reduce the risk of damage during transportation.
Customers will also receive priority loading arrangements and airport-to-airport shipment visibility, with operational milestones monitored through Emirates SkyCargo’s command centre.
The airline will provide proactive communication and coordination when shipment schedules or handling requirements need additional attention. Specialist project cargo support is also available for heavy or oversized equipment that cannot be accommodated through conventional freight handling arrangements.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President at Emirates SkyCargo, said the airline developed the service in response to increasing demand for the international movement of AI infrastructure.
“In July alone, we transported more than 700 tonnes of AI infrastructure across our global network, and demand has continued to grow,” said Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President at Emirates SkyCargo.
Freighter capacity supports infrastructure shipments
AI infrastructure shipments can include unusually dense and heavy equipment, with some server racks weighing more than 3.5 tonnes. Such loads require suitable aircraft capacity, specialised loading arrangements and coordination between cargo terminals.
Emirates SkyCargo plans to operate 23 dedicated freighters by March 2027, providing additional main-deck capacity for the transportation of large technology equipment.
The airline also uses cargo space aboard its wide-body passenger aircraft, allowing different shipment types to be accommodated across its international network.
The new AI Tech product builds on Emirates SkyCargo’s existing technology and high-value cargo operations, introducing dedicated handling and monitoring arrangements for customers involved in AI infrastructure deployment.
While the service has been launched, the airline has not disclosed separate revenue projections, shipment volume targets or a schedule for further expansion of the AI Tech product.
