Emirates Flight Catering Acquires World's Largest Indoor Vertical Farm

In a landmark move, Emirates Flight Catering has taken a giant leap in the aviation and agriculture industries by fully acquiring Bustanica, the world's largest indoor vertical farm. This acquisition not only underscores Emirates' commitment to sustainability and innovation but also marks a significant advancement in the UAE's food and water security and agricultural capabilities.

A Giant in Sustainable Agriculture

Bustanica, sprawling over 330,000 square feet near Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, stands as a testament to modern agricultural practices. It boasts the capacity to produce over 1 million kilograms of leafy greens annually, which equates to about three tons every day. Remarkably, this is achieved while consuming 95% less water than traditional farming methods, highlighting the farm's commitment to sustainability.

From Farm to Flight

The produce from Bustanica is not just for Emirates' in-flight meals; it also reaches the tables of several major UAE retailers like Spinney's, Waitrose, Carrefour, and Choithrams. This wide distribution ensures that Emirates Flight Catering's acquisition of Bustanica will have a far-reaching impact on the availability of fresh, sustainably grown produce across the UAE.

Culinary Excellence at 30,000 Feet

Emirates Flight Catering is renowned for its culinary excellence, operating the largest flight catering facility in the world at Dubai International Airport. The company's operations are vast, producing 149 meals every minute and serving a staggering 77 million customers annually. With 1,400 chefs, Emirates Flight Catering sources premium ingredients, including caviar and fresh cream, to ensure that its in-flight meals are of the highest quality.

A Step Towards Self-Sufficiency

This acquisition is more than just an expansion of Emirates Flight Catering's operations; it's a strategic move towards enhancing the UAE's self-sufficiency in food production. By leveraging local expertise and the latest in technology, Emirates Bustanica aims to meet the growing demand for fresh produce in the market, setting a new standard for sustainable farming practices in the region.

A Future of Sustainable Dining

As Emirates continues to serve millions of passengers each year, the full ownership of Bustanica by Emirates Flight Catering represents a significant step forward in integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations. From the farm to the skies, Emirates is redefining the future of dining, ensuring that every bite taken at 30,000 feet is fresh, flavorful, and sustainably sourced.