">Dubai-based airfreight handler Dnata has broken ground on a 20,000sq m cargo warehouse at Erbil International Airport in Iraq. The foundation stone for the US$ 14 million building, scheduled for completion in September 2024, was unveiled by dnata’s senior vice president for UAE and Iraq airport operations, Jaffar Dawood.
The facility will be capable of processing 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including perishables, pharmaceuticals and dangerous goods. Dnata will also implement its ‘OneCargo’ digital system at the facility which will also have thermal insulation to reduce the building’s environmental impact, a water harvesting system, 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 Erbil where it provides ground handling and cargo services to over 25 airlines.
Jaffar said: “We are delighted to expand our operations in response to the growing demand for our reliable and safe cargo services in Erbil. 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.”
