flydubai has entered into a long-term partnership with Unilode Aviation Solutions to fully manage its Unit Load Devices (ULDs), as the airline moves into a new phase of cargo development and expands its dedicated freighter operations.
Under the agreement, Unilode will provide flydubai with a fully outsourced ULD management programme covering both passenger and cargo freighter operations. The solution is designed to support the airline’s forthcoming widebody operations involving Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, as well as its longer-term fleet expansion plans.
The programme will cover the complete range of ULD management requirements, including the supply of specialised boxes and pallets used inside aircraft cargo holds, maintenance and repair, fleet planning, repositioning and digital asset tracking. These services will be supported by Unilode’s global maintenance and repair network.
For flydubai, the partnership is intended to provide a scalable solution capable of supporting its operational development as the airline expands its fleet, network and cargo activities.
Since launching operations in 2009, flydubai has developed a network covering more than 125 destinations across 56 countries. The carrier is now continuing to strengthen its cargo capabilities while supporting its freighter programmes and preparing for future fleet growth.
By taking responsibility for the management of flydubai’s passenger and cargo ULD fleet, Unilode will help ensure that the required equipment is available at the right location and at the right time. Its digital tracking technology and global logistics infrastructure are expected to provide greater fleet visibility, improve asset utilisation and simplify day-to-day ULD operations.
“As flydubai continues to progress, having trusted partners that can scale alongside us is essential. This partnership with Unilode supports our ongoing investment in fleet, network and cargo capabilities while helping us maintain the efficiency and flexibility required to serve our customers and support Dubai’s position as a global aviation and trade hub,” said Mohamed Hassan, Senior Vice President of Airport Services & Cargo at flydubai.
The airline also highlighted the importance of technology and operational best practices as it develops its cargo activities.
“We have a longstanding commitment to investing in the latest technologies and adopting best practices. As we introduce our dedicated freighter operations and prepare for our future Boeing 787 passenger and cargo services, improving the visibility and availability of our cargo equipment becomes increasingly important. Unilode’s digital capabilities and global network will help us optimise operations, improve ULD utilisation and support reliable service delivery across our expanding network,” said Rashed Albashri, Vice President of Cargo at flydubai.
For Unilode, the agreement adds flydubai to its customer portfolio and strengthens its presence among airlines operating in the Middle East.
“We’re proud to welcome flydubai to the Unilode customer portfolio. flydubai has established itself as one of the Middle East’s most dynamic and ambitious airlines, and this partnership reflects our shared commitment to supporting its continued growth,” said Ross Marino, Chief Executive Officer of Unilode Aviation Solutions.
“As flydubai expands its passenger network, strengthens its cargo freighter operations and prepares for future fleet development with the expected delivery of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, our outsourced ULD management solution will provide the flexibility, visibility and operational resilience needed to support every stage of that journey. We look forward to helping flydubai focus on growing its business while we manage its ULD operations,” he added.
The partnership comes as flydubai accelerates the development of its cargo activities, including the launch of dedicated freighter operations from October 2026.
The airline began operating its dedicated freighter programme with three Boeing 737-800 freighter aircraft from 1 October 2026 at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The freighter operation is designed to complement flydubai’s existing belly-hold cargo capabilities across its fleet of nearly 100 Boeing 737 aircraft.
The agreement also reinforces Unilode’s position as a ULD management partner for airlines in the Middle East and internationally. Through its digitally enabled and flexible solutions, the company aims to improve asset availability, operational performance and long-term efficiency for its airline customers.
