Gerry’s dnata, the largest ground handler in Pakistan, has signed a multi-year agreement with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) to provide full ground handling services for the airline’s Pakistan operations across Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Islamabad.

Gerry’s dnata’s position is further strengthened with the lion's share amongst ground handlers and further underpins the position of the key aviation partner in the industry.

Saudia operates 41 weekly flights, not including pilgrimage flights, from destinations in Saudi Arabia to its four points in Pakistan, using a mix of aircraft types, including the B777, B747, A330, A300 and B757s. Gerry’s dnata has been selected to provide passenger, baggage and ramp handling services for these operations. The firm will also arrange employment for approximately 60 staff of the airline, ensuring a smooth transition in operations and creating opportunities for the local market.

“There is a very strong, historic bond between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, and it is one of our busiest destinations for outbound travel from Pakistan,” said Gary Chapman, president dnata. “Gerry’s dnata is proud to add Saudia to its portfolio. It will create many opportunities for both companies. We believe our success lies in putting the customer and safety at the heart of everything we do, and in helping them achieve their objectives. We have invested heavily in facilities; people, process innovation and technology across Pakistan, and I’m confident our team will provide Saudia the highest level of service and quality we are known for.”

“We have been supporting the aviation industry in Pakistan since 1993, and over the years, have helped the industry continue to grow and meet the needs of the travel communities. This new partnership will further strengthen our position both on a local and global level,” he added.

Saleh bin Nasser Al Jasser, director general of Saudia, said “In line with our transformation efforts towards 2020, we have selected Gerry’s dnata to provide full ground handling services for Saudia across our strategically important Pakistan market. Saudia has long been associated with dnata as a provider of high quality ground handling services and we are very pleased to extend our strong partnership to include Gerry’s dnata in Pakistan. The Saudia team have invested significant effort to ensure the delivery of more efficient and better quality handling services for our guests; we very much look forward to the Gerry’s dnata team in Pakistan supporting our goals as we work together to identify potential future opportunities to collaborate further”.

Gerry’s dnata footprint spans across seven airports in Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, and makes it the largest ground handler in Pakistan, now able to welcome over three million passengers in and out of these locations every year. - TradeArabia News Service