dnata, one of the world’s largest airline services providers recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of its first overseas operation.
In July 1993, Gerry’s Group and the UAE-based, dnata, partnered to provide ground handling services at Karachi Airport in Pakistan. Since then, the joint venture has grown to become Pakistan’s largest cargo and ground handling company operating at seven major airports in the country.
Gary Chapman, president of dnata, said: “We are proud to celebrate the 25th anniversary of our first international joint venture. Our operations with Gerry’s dnata in Pakistan continue to grow from strength to strength.”
Today, the group provides services in 129 airports, spanning 84 countries and six continents with more than 300 airline customers around the world. The establishment of dnata’s first international joint venture with Gerry’s Group led the way for the expansion of its international airport operations through acquisitions, partnerships, as well as organic growth.
From 2017 to 2018, the company has made USD 3.6 billion in revenues.
Chapman added: “Starting from Pakistan, we’ve successfully leveraged the expertise from our established UAE operations to become one of the largest and most trusted combined air services providers in the industry, operating in highly competitive markets across six continents.”
The group’s services are delivered by a team of over 41,000 professionals who support more than 243,000 passengers, handle over 1,800 flights and move 8,450 tonnes of cargo at 130 airports every day.
“70% of dnata’s revenues today come from our international operations”
“Nearly 70% of dnata’s revenues today come from our international operations. Looking ahead, our strategy remains grounded in the same principles: continually enhance our operations to create more value for our stakeholders, while ensuring service excellence and the highest level of safety all around the dnata network.”
dnata’s international growth plan started in Pakistan and expanded to Singapore in 2004. It was followed in 2010, through a global acquisition of Alpha Flight Group which brought nearly 6,000 employees across 11 countries into its fold.
The group has also expanded by developing its own brands and acquiring interests in other established travel companies. It currently operates 20 travel brands, offering comprehensive travel services for individuals, companies and the travel trade across 77 countries, booking over 21,000 hotel stays daily.