Aviation logistics specialist Menzies Aviation’s MASIL joint venture (JV) has launched cargo operations at Baghdad International Airport (BGW) in Iraq.
MASIL is executing the operation as part of its ‘Cargo Go Live’ initiative and manifesto.
After securing the contract from the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA), MASIL started operations at Baghdad International Airport in January.
Menzies Aviation said that this marked the first licence of its kind secured by a foreign aviation services player from the ICAA.
The contract makes MASIL responsible for providing comprehensive ground handling, cargo and fuelling services at the airport.
The cargo services will be provided to clients, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, DHL, MNG Airlines, Silk Way Airlines, Egypt Air and flydubai, among others, by a 65-member MASIL team.
These workers will undertake Menzies Aviation cargo training modules, covering safety management, dangerous goods, security and specialised handling techniques under the Cargo Go Live initiative.
For the development of a cargo centre at the airport, MASIL will take measures to improve the security and sustainability of operations, along with compliance.
In addition, MASIL will deploy bespoke technological systems to support the process of cargo handling.
Menzies Aviation Middle East, Asia and Africa executive vice-president Charles Wyley said: “We are delighted that our cargo operations have now gone live at Baghdad International Airport, following a lot of hard work and dedication from MASIL.”
MASIL is a joint venture between Menzies Aviation, Iraqi Airways, Al Burhan Group and Air BP.
Earlier this month, Dubai-based carrier Emirates renewed and expanded its ground handling partnership contract in Northern Europe with Menzies Aviation.
