Since its launch in March 2010, dnata's operation at Erbil International Airport has expanded steadily, providing comprehensive ground handling and cargo services to an increasing number of customer airlines, from the initial six at launch to today's 17 passenger and freight companies — and the team continues to win new business.

As passenger numbers and cargo volumes have increased at Erbil airport, dnata's ground handling team has risen to the challenge to meet and exceed customer expectations.

The business has made extensive investment in strengthening the team — increasing its staff from just eight check-in staff at start-up of the operation to today's figure of 39.

Erbil staff too celebrated with a function at one of Erbil's newer hotels recently, sharing an evening of food and entertainment with prizes and short presentations by senior management.

"Thanks to the dedication of our staff and the strength of our parent company, dnata, we have progressively expanded our customer base and won the recognition of the industry for the service we provide at Erbil International Airport" said Kevin Hodkinson, general manager for dnata in Erbil.

"This week's events provided an opportunity for our staff, customers and partners to celebrate what we have achieved so far and we look forward to further strengthening relationships and achieving continued success."

Passenger numbers have increased from around 35,000 per month to 47,000 and cargo volumes doubled during the time dnata has been operating at the airport.

Investments totaling more than $1.5 million have been made by dnata, including the purchase of ground support equipment (GSE) such as an additional pushback vehicle, the imminent opening of a brand new cargo facility and the recent commissioning of a much needed maintenance facility for its GSE.