Handling company Dnata is to open a dedicated animal handling centre at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) this summer. Part of the new Dnata Cargo City Amsterdam complex, the purpose-built the 2,380sq m fully temperature-controlled centre will accommodate a wide range of animals in a safe, calm environment. It will include separate holding areas, quiet zones, adjustable lighting and an on-site vet to ensure continuous care. There will be stables for over 70 horses, and rigorous biosecurity protocols.
The new centre will meet global standards, including IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Live Animals certification. Dnata’s animal handling team is fully trained and regularly updated on IATA’s Live Animals Regulations.
Demand for animal transport is rising globally, says Dnata, with nearly 200,000 live animal shipments in 2024, an 11% increase since 2019. At Schiphol alone, Dnata handled 22,500 animals last year.
It will form part of Dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, one of the world’s largest and most advanced facilities of its kind, opening this July. The 61,000sq m, fully automated hub will be capable of processing more than 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, aircraft engines and vehicles.
The company currently provides ground handling and cargo services to 25 airlines in Amsterdam, handling over 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually with a team of over 1,000 professionals.
Dnata’s new Schiphol facility complements its existing 2,000sq m Animal Care and Inspection Centre at Brussels Airport.