Dnata, the ground handling arm of Dubai’s Emirates Group, has been named “Ground Handling Provider of the Year”.

The premium accolade was awarded at the first Aviation Business Awards ceremony, which was organised by ITP Publishing.

The event saw acknowledgement in 14 categories awarded to the region’s most outstanding players in the aviation industry, the organisers said in a statement.

A panel of judges selected Dnata from among four other shortlisted contenders, using a stringent set of criteria that ranged from operating experience, staff training and company ethics, to growth figures, quality of services and facilities offered, unique selling points and operating standards and practices.

“This is a huge achievement for the Dnata Airport Operations team, who have delivered results despite operating in a high-pressure environment where they face daily challenges brought about by the aggressive expansion of Dubai Airport and our company's own rapid growth,” said Dnata executive vice-president Ismail Ali Albanna.

"Dnata is always striving to redefine quality service, and implement international best practice. We invest in our people and encourage them to contribute ideas that will increase productivity and enhance customer satisfaction. It’s an honour to be recognised for our efforts, and I know I share this pride with my colleagues who work so tirelessly to support the growth of the Dnata and deliver high-quality service to world-class standards,” he said.

Dnata’s Ground Handling Provider of the Year award was announced during the 10th Dubai Airshow week.

Dnata Airport Operations is responsible for ensuring the smooth flow of aircraft, passengers and cargo through Dubai International Airport. Dnata handled approximately 200,000 aircraft movements, more than 30 million passengers and 1.5 million tonnes of freight to the satisfaction of 120 airlines and their customers last year, the company said in a statement. – TradeArabia News Service