As restrictions ease and countries open up for international travel, airlines gradually expand their operations and network globally. The summer of 2021 is expected to be busy at Dubai International (DXB) and the dnata team are prepared to deliver a seamless journey for everyone travelling to or transiting through the world’s number one airport for international passengers.

dnata’s 8,500 highly trained staff will provide the highest level of service and safety to 85 airlines and their passengers across three terminals, including Terminal 1 that has recently reopened to accommodate the anticipated growth in demand for travel.

During June, July and August dnata expects to handle over 6,300 flights in Dubai from around the world. This volume means the dnata teams at DXB will handle a flight every 21 minutes, on average.

The people resources required for a turnaround varies; a Boeing 737 takes 16 people, while the A380 super jumbo requires at least 52 people, and is a coordinated effort. Each member of the dnata team has a role they need to execute with extreme precision to ensure the aircraft is ready for its next journey and next group of passengers, baggage and cargo.

Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s Senior Vice President for DXB Airline Services, said: “Although it may take longer than originally predicted, we have no doubts that international travel will return. People will travel to see their friends and families for the first time in years, businesses will once again meet across borders to collaborate, and explorers will return to discovering the world. With our dedicated team, we are prepared to help all individuals and businesses safely reconnect across the world through Dubai and our other hubs by consistently delivering best-in-class services for them at every stage of their journey.”

dnata has been working closely with Dubai Airports to maximise safety for passengers throughout their airport journey, from check-in to boarding. Check-in desks at the airport are installed with protective barriers and expanded waiting areas help passengers observe social distancing. The boarding process is facilitated by dnata’s boarding agents who wear the required PPE and ensure that passengers board in small numbers.

dnata has also enhanced its aircraft cabin cleaning services. The process involves extensive cleaning with a stronger disinfectant, and includes a comprehensive wipedown of all surfaces. The on-board cleaning chemicals are approved by the relevant authorities and proven to kill viruses and germs. They leave a long-lasting protective coating against new contamination of viruses, bacteria and fungi on surfaces, and are eco-friendly. A dedicated quality team and shift managers oversee the cleaning on the majority of flights.

In addition to its ground and passenger handling services, dnata also provides innovative Home Check-in, Meet & Greet and Lounge services for passengers through its airport hospitality brand, marhaba. Taking advantage of marhaba’s innovative solutions, customers can enjoy complete peace of mind throughout their journey, from a quick and easy home check-in process, including COVID-19 testing, to the delivery of their disinfected baggage at their destination airport.

marhaba has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of passengers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Each Meet & Greet agent has been thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols, and wears a mask and abides by social distancing guidelines while assisting passengers at the airports. marhaba’s chauffeurs also adhere to safety protocols, and the cars undergo strict disinfecting procedures after each trip.

marhaba has reopened 4 airport lounges at DXB. All lounges offer touchless payment options and frequently undergo increased cleaning and sanitisation with a specific focus on high-touch surfaces. Senior travellers and their family member can enjoy the services in designated zones.

A global air services provider and the trusted partner of over 300 airline customers, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, catering and travel services in 35 countries. In the financial year 2020-21 dnata’s customer-oriented teams handled 290,000 aircraft, moved 2.7 million tons of cargo, and uplifted some 17 million meals.