08
April
2013
|
16:08
Europe/Amsterdam

dnata and Virgin Atlantic Airways expand partnership at Heathrow Airport

DUBAI, U.A.E., and LONDON, UK, 08 April 2013dnata announced today an extension of its existing relationship with Virgin Atlantic Airways at Heathrow Airport.

Virgin Atlantic and dnata have been working together for more than 25 years. During that time, the partnership has grown and now includes ramp handling for Virgin Atlantic’s long-haul operations from Terminal 3 and its UK cargo handling business, in addition to the Terminal 1 short-haul operations. In this latest deal, starting from 31st March 2013, dnata’s UK operation will begin ramp handling for Virgin’s short-haul services from Terminal 1.

“dnata’s relationship with Virgin Atlantic has proven to be one of our most important and successful partnerships to date,” said Gary Morgan, CEO of dnata’s UK operations. “The two companies have been instrumental in each other’s growth within the UK, and this new contract reaffirms Virgin Atlantic’s confidence with dnata’s services.”

dnata currently services 21 daily flights for Virgin Atlantic’s long-haul service from Terminal 3. Under the new short-haul contract, dnata will manage Virgin Atlantic’s 13 daily flights of its A320 operation.

Forty six additional staff have been recruited by dnata at Heathrow as a result of this contract award which will provide a additional economic boost for the local area.

“dnata is committed to delivering the promises our customers make,” added Morgan. “From cargo handling to airport operations, our top priority is ensuring our customers receive quality and industry-leading services. We look forward to continuing and growing the connection between dnata and Virgin Atlantic.”

The business relationship between the two companies dates back to 1987 when Virgin Atlantic was the launch customer for Plane Trucking’s handling operation in the UK, which later became Plane Handling. dnata acquired Plane Handling in 2010.