dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, has opened a new, state-of-the art cargo complex, dnata City North, at Manchester Airport (MAN). Representing an investment of over GBP 30 million, the 150,000 sq ft² facility allows the company to significantly expand and consolidate its Manchester operations.

Particularly well-situated for ease of airfield access, dnata’s purpose-built on-airport facility includes 125,000 sq ft² warehouse space and is capable of processing in excess of 150,000 tons of cargo annually. It is equipped with the latest technologies and complies with the highest industry standards ensuring efficient and safe handling of all types of cargo, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, aircraft engines and vehicles.

Alex Doisneau, Managing Director of dnata UK, said: ”We are thrilled to announce the opening of another world-class cargo facility in a strategic location in the UK. Our new, purpose-built facility in Manchester complements our existing multiple UK operations including the dnata City complex at London Heathrow, enabling customers to enhance their operations in the region.

“Our continued investment and expansion in the UK underlines our commitment to our customers and the local cargo industry at a critical time, providing operational excellence at key gateways across the country.”

Gareth Jackson, MAG Group Property Director, said: “It’s great to see dnata open its superb new cargo complex here at Manchester Airport.

“The new facility will further enhance the role we play in ensuring freight is seamlessly transported into and out of the North region markets from all parts of the world. Not only will the centre help the North’s trade credentials, it will boost employment opportunities for communities in Greater Manchester too.

“We look forward to working closely with dnata as it continues to grow from Manchester Airport.”

dnata City North contains a pharma and perishables centre offering customers a safe and reliable cold chain solution for the handling of temperature sensitive goods, including the COVID-19 vaccine. The facility was designed with flexibility and unique product handling requirements in mind, taking advantage of the latest technologies. The cold storage areas in the centre are modular, enabling teams to manage changing handling demands with dedicated climate control capability. Web-based monitoring systems are also in place to facilitate real-time management of all areas.

dnata City North also includes 25,000 sq ft² flexible office accommodation providing an innovative mixture of workspace and meeting facilities, as well as breakout spaces.

In recent years, dnata has significantly invested in advanced infrastructure, equipment and cutting-edge technologies, cementing its position as a leading air cargo services provider in the UK. The company’s recent investments include the opening of dnata City East, a new bespoke export facility at London Heathrow (LHR) that significantly increased the cargo capacity at the UK’s busiest airport. Operating 14 facilities at 6 airports, dnata is now able to handle more than 850,000 tons of cargo annually across the country.

A global air services provider and the trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo and catering services at 126 airports in 19 countries. In the financial year 2019-20 dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled 681,000 aircraft, moved 2.9 million tons of cargo, and uplifted more than 93 million meals.