Dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers, has reached an agreement with Brazil’s RM Ground Services to purchase a majority stake in the company. The acquisition marks dnata’s first step into the South American continent.

RM Ground Services, which was founded by Ricardo Morrison in 2004, operates at more airports in Brazil than any ground handling company. It offers passenger and ramp handling as well as cargo services. The company has 2,100 employees, serves over 400 flights a day at 24 airports across the country, and is highly-regarded for the quality of its operations and staff.

The company’s domestic clients include GOL, AZUL, Avianca and TAM Airlines. RM also provides services to international airlines and major cargo carriers.

“The purchase of RM Ground Services is an important milestone for dnata. This latest acquisition opens the door for dnata to serve one of the world’s fastest growing aviation regions, South America,” said Stewart Angus, dnata’s divisional SVP, international airport operations.

Under the deal, the Recife-based company will be rebranded to dnata, and Ricardo Morrison will continue as CEO. All current staff will also remain with the company.

“We are pleased to partner with dnata to bring a new range of services, products and knowledge to our customers in Brazil. dnata’s commitment to service excellence, safety, security and technology will improve not only the experience for our airline customers, but also for the passengers who travel with them,” said CEO Ricardo Morrison.

The acquisition of RM Ground Services closely follows other recent high-profile transactions by dnata, including the investment in ground handling operations in Milan and cargo facilities at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Established in 1959, dnata offers ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services and is a partner for over 380 airline customers around the world.