dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, continues to expand its global catering network. The company commenced operations in Canada by opening a new, 48,000ft² (4,460m²) facility at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). dnata’s latest expansion represents a multi-million dollar investment and is expected to create 80 new, direct jobs with the company over the next 18 months.

dnata’s newest facility is equipped with the latest technologies and has a capacity of up to 8,000 meals a day. The company commenced serving its first commercial airline customer, British Airways, in Vancouver on 1 February. dnata will also serve VIP and charter aircraft operators from its new facility.

dnata has a presence in the Canadian aviation market already, providing ground handling and cargo services to 18 airlines through its joint venture, GTA dnata, at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). GTA dnata’s 750 customer-oriented employees ensure the smooth operations of 8,600 flights and safe movement of 90,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

Robin Padgett, Divisional Senior Vice President, dnata, said: “We are delighted to announce this further expansion of our operations in North America, a strategic market with high growth potential for dnata. Our investment in a new facility in Vancouver underscores our long-term commitment to Canada, and we are confident that with our global expertise, innovative approach and dedicated team of local culinary professionals we can make a difference and add significant value to our customers’ onboard offering in the country. We look forward to delivering best-in-class services and products from our newest facility.”

dnata’s expansion into Canada follows the company’s increased investment in its catering portfolio in North America, having opened new facilities at the airports of Houston (IAH), Boston (BOS), Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) in the United States in 2019. In 2020 dnata will further expand its footprint in the continent by establishing catering operations at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

dnata’s rapidly expanding catering division now boasts over 12,000 employees who are focused on providing quality catering, inflight retail and F&B solutions across the globe. As one of the world’s leading inflight caterers, dnata serves more than 120 airline customers, producing over 110 million meals annually at 62 locations in 12 countries.