Air India is set to resume flights to Zurich after a 27-year absence, partnering with global air services provider dnata for ground handling operations.
dnata has secured a multi-year contract to provide passenger, ramp and baggage services for Air India’s new four-weekly service between Zurich and Delhi.
The airline will operate Boeing 787-8 aircraft on the route, with dnata expected to handle over 50,000 passengers on more than 200 annual flights.
Willy Ruf, Managing Director of dnata Switzerland, said: “We are delighted to welcome Air India back to Zurich and thank them for putting their trust in dnata’s services.”
He added: “We look forward to working with the airline’s local team to ensure smooth and timely operations of flights, and provide customers with a best-in-class airport experience.”
dnata currently operates at two Swiss airports – Zurich and Geneva – providing ground handling and cargo services to over 30 airlines with a workforce of 1,100 employees.
In the 2023-24 financial year, dnata handled over 12,000 flights at Zurich Airport, processing more than two million passengers and 46,000 tonnes of cargo.
The company, established in 1959, offers ground handling, cargo, travel, catering and retail services in more than 30 countries across six continents.
During the 2023-24 financial year, dnata’s teams globally handled over 778,000 aircraft turns, moved 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, and uplifted 123 million meals.
The partnership marks a significant milestone for Air India as it re-enters the Zurich market after nearly three decades, potentially boosting connectivity between Switzerland and India.