Erbil, Iraq: Air and travel services provider dnata broke ground on a new 20,000 sqm cargo warehouse in Iraq at an investment of $14 million, expanding its operations at Erbil International Airport, it said on Wednesday.
Set for completion in September 2024, the new project will create up to 50 additional, direct jobs with dnata in the country.
“We are delighted to expand our operations in response to the growing demand for our reliable and safe cargo services in Erbil,” said dnata’s Senior Vice President for UAE and Iraq Airport Operations, Jaffar Dawood.
The new facility will be capable of processing 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including perishables, pharmaceuticals and dangerous goods. dnata will also implement its ‘OneCargo’ system within the facility, digitising processes and maximising efficiencies across its cargo operations in Iraq.
“Our new facility will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and the latest carbon reduction initiatives in design and operation, ensuring the highest level of operational and environmental efficiency for our customers. We stay committed to the Iraqi aviation industry and continue to invest in our operations to contribute to the development of Erbil as a regional cargo hub,” Dawood added.
The facility will be equipped with the latest technologies, including thermal insulation to reduce the building’s environmental impact by maintaining low carbon dioxide manufacturing emissions and operating costs. Additional, environmentally sustainable features include a water harvesting system, which recycles condensed water, low energy skylighting, and an all-electric forklift fleet.
dnata’s latest expansion follows the opening of a new, advanced cool chain facility and a bus maintenance facility in 2022 at EBL. The company currently provides ground handling and cargo services to over 25 airlines with a team of over 400 aviation professionals.
