Singapore Airlines has announced it will switch cargo handler at Schiphol Airport, moving to Swissport from dnata.
In a note to customers, the airline said that it would switch operations to Swissport starting on 8 September.
The move comes after dnata faced “operational challenges” during a move to a new facility at the Dutch hub in July.
To help dnata work through the backlog of cargo caused by the issues, Singapore Airlines temporarily moved over to Swissport. However, the move has now been made permanent.
”After more than five decades of partnership with dnata (formerly Aeroground and Aviapartner), this was not a decision we reached easily,” Singapore Airlines said.
“While we recognise the many years of cooperation, the recent challenges we have experienced underscored the need for this transition to Swissport. We extend our appreciation to dnata for their past efforts and wish them well.”
Import cargo flows have already transferred over to Swissport, while export cargo booked on flights from 8 September will need to be delivered to the Swissport facility.
”We understand that any change in handling agent impacts your operations, and we thank you for your patience and support during this period,” Swissport told customers.
”This move is driven by our commitment to providing you with the dependable and seamless service you expect from Singapore Airlines. We remain at your disposal for any clarifications.”
In mid-August dnata told Air Cargo News that it had now cleared the backlog caused by the teething issues.
The handler moved to its new dnata Cargo City Amsterdam facility at the start of July and faced problems with data across various systems, which were subsequently cleansed.
When fully operational, the new state-of-the-art facility will be able to process more than 850,000 tonnes of cargo a year and is equipped with automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for flexible, scalable ULD movements within the terminal.
