Global air and travel service provider dnata has announced it is to invest of over €25 million to develop a cutting-edge cargo facility at Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP).
To be located in the Cargo City area of the airport, the new facility will span 10,000 sqm, with an annual handling capacity of over 100,000 tonnes.
Designed to meet the highest industry standards, it will support the efficient and safe handling of all cargo types, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, live animals, aircraft engines, and vehicles.
The strategic project will be delivered through wholly-owned local subsidiary, Airport Handling, and is part of dnata’s broader commitment to building high-performance cargo infrastructure in markets with strong long-term growth potential.
Airport Handling’s expansion follows a competitive tender process by the SEA Group, the operator of Linate and Malpensa airports.
The development will create 200 new local jobs, further strengthening the company’s position as Italy’s leading ground services provider.
Aligned with dnata’s global sustainability strategy, the facility will feature a range of energy-efficient solutions. These include photovoltaic panels for renewable energy, advanced thermal insulation, and high-efficiency LED lighting.
Alberto Morosi, chief executive of Airport Handling, said: “Our expansion into cargo is a defining investment for Airport Handling and a clear signal of our long-term commitment to Italy.
"Milan is a regional hub for aviation and trade, and we see strong fundamentals for sustained cargo growth driven by cross-border e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and perishables.
"Our extensive experience in ramp and passenger services provides a solid operational foundation - adding cargo services to our portfolio is a natural evolution.
“We anticipate this investment will energise the local logistics ecosystem, delivering meaningful benefits to businesses and communities. We thank the SEA Group for their trust and look forward to setting new standards in Italy.”
Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, chief executive of dnata airport operations, said: “Europe remains a cornerstone of our global expansion strategy, and this project allows us to build future-ready cargo capacity in a high-potential market.
"We will continue to invest in advanced infrastructure and technologies to deliver best-in-class services across our operations.”
READ MORE NEWS: IAG names dnata as first ground handler in its Preferred Partner Programme
