Handler touches down in the US

Middle East-owned handler dnata has broken into the US market with its purchase from Lynx Holdings to acquire its AirLogistix USA cargo operations at Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
The 30,000 sq ft facility includes the airport’s only dedicated perishable cargo handling centre for products such as pharmaceuticals, fruits, vegetables, fish and flowers, dealing with over 16,000 tonnes in 2016. However, it has a capacity of up to 20,000 tonnes a year.
As part of the transaction, AirLogistix and dnata have also committed to open a similar facility at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in the summer 2017. It will be 37,000sq ft, again including a dedicated perishables handling facility.
Dnata’s Stewart Angus – divisional senior vice president of international airport operations – explained: “Our strategy is to offer the highest level of service in each market we operate. The AirLogistix operation fits the bill and will further enhance our growing international cargo network.”
AirLogistix founder and owner Ray Brimble added: “I am passing AirLogistix USA into good hands. Dnata’s commitment to service and safety at the highest standards and its continued investment in its product is in line with our philosophy, and ensures our customers will continue to receive the quality service they expect."
Dnata has opened 18 new cargo facilities in the past five years and, with the investments in Houston and Dallas, now handles over 2.8 million tonnes of cargo at 42 airports worldwide.
The AirLogistix management team, including president Kerry Galegher, will remain in place.