Global air services provider dnata has broken ground on its new 20,000m2 cargo warehouse at Erbil International Airport.

The new facility represents an investment of US$14m and will create up to 50 direct jobs with dnata in Iraq, the company said.

“We are delighted to expand our operations in response to the growing demand for our reliable and safe cargo services in Erbil,” said dnata’s senior vice president for UAE and Iraq airport operations, Jaffar Dawood.

“Our new facility will incorporate cutting-edge technologies and the latest carbon reduction initiatives in design and operation, ensuring the highest level of operational and environmental efficiency for our customers. We stay committed to the Iraqi aviation industry and continue to invest in our operations to contribute to the development of Erbil as a regional cargo hub.”

dnata’s newest cargo facility will be capable of processing 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including perishables, pharmaceuticals and dangerous goods. It will feature dnata’s advanced ‘OneCargo’ system, digitising processes and maximising efficiencies across the company’s cargo operations in Iraq.

The facility will be equipped with the latest technologies, including thermal insulation to reduce the building’s environmental impact by maintaining low CO2 manufacturing emissions and operating costs. Additional, environmentally sustainable features include a water harvesting system, which recycles condensed water, low energy skylighting, and an all-electric forklift fleet.

The new cargo warehouse is scheduled for completion in September 2024.

Image: dnata