A partnership between dnata and Silk Way Group to launch a leading aviation and cargo services center in Azerbaijan

dnata, a leading global aviation and travel services company, has signed a joint venture agreement with Silk Way Group of Azerbaijan to establish ground handling and cargo operations at the new Alat International Airport, located in the Alat Free Economic Zone in Baku.

The project, which will be launched with the opening of the new passenger terminal in April 2027, represents a major investment in the future of the aviation and logistics sectors in Azerbaijan, as it will combine dnata’s global expertise and the leadership of the Silk Way Group in the local market to provide integrated aviation services in Azerbaijan.

Alat International Airport will include advanced logistics facilities capable of handling more than 500,000 tons of cargo annually, with handling volume expected to grow by 5% annually over the next decade.

In its early stages, the joint project will focus on ground handling and freight services, before later expanding to include catering services, customs clearance, de-icing, and a variety of other services, with the aim of building an integrated platform for aviation services that provides carriers and customers at the airport with world-class levels of efficiency and quality.

The project is expected to create more than 1,000 local jobs, with investments in training and skills development to create long-term sustainable opportunities in the Azerbaijani aviation sector.

Dnata is a long-term partner of the Silk Way Group, currently providing a range of aviation services to Silk Way West Airlines in five countries, handling approximately 1,150 flights and 85,000 tons of cargo annually.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “Our joint venture with Silk Way Group represents an important step to expand dnata’s global presence and support rapid growth in the Caucasus region. The new airport in Baku will be a pivotal hub for freight flows in the region, and our investment ensures the provision of safe, reliable and high-quality services to carriers and logistics partners from day one.”

He added: “In addition to operational excellence, this project reflects our long-term strategy to provide integrated aviation solutions in promising markets. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with the Silk Way Group to support the aviation and logistics sectors in Azerbaijan, and serve its communities and economy.”

Zaur Akhundov, Chairman of Silk Way Group, said: “Our partnership with dnata represents a new step in the development of the aviation industry in Azerbaijan. Together we are working to build a modern system that connects the Alat Free Economic Zone to the global aviation and logistics network. This joint project represents an investment in both infrastructure and human resources, by creating new jobs, developing professional skills, and laying the foundations for For sustainable growth. The launch of aviation services at Alat International Airport is a strategic step towards achieving our vision of transforming Azerbaijan into a leading regional hub.”

Alat International Airport is located within the Alat Free Economic Zone, and will include 18 aircraft parking lots, a 4,000-meter runway, designated taxiways for aircraft, in addition to an air traffic control center. The project aims to enhance the country’s transportation capabilities and support the comprehensive economic development of the surrounding region.

Upon its completion in 2027, the Alat Free Economic Zone will transform into a prominent commercial transit center thanks to its integrated infrastructure, which will provide direct access to the Baku international commercial sea port and railway and highway networks, enhancing Azerbaijan’s capabilities in the fields of transportation and distribution.