dnata Named First Ground Handler in IAG’s Preferred Partner Programme
(IN SHORT) dnata has signed an MoU with International Airlines Group, becoming the inaugural ground handler in IAG’s Preferred Partner Programme. The pact establishes a long-term framework to drive innovation, consistency and value across North American stations, with services due to commence in Q4 2025. David Barker of dnata and Gurm Nijjer of IAG emphasized the partnership’s focus on operational excellence, technology-enabled efficiency and scalable growth, noting recent wins like the LAX ground handling contract for IAG airlines. dnata, active in over 30 countries, handled 794,000 aircraft turns and 3.1 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024–25, while IAG’s 600+ aircraft carry 122 million customers annually. The collaboration signals IAG’s intent to align with high-performing suppliers and optimize ground operations as part of its wider strategic goals.
(PRESS RELEASE) LOS ANGELES, 2025-Jul-22 — /Travel PR News/ — dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with International Airlines Group (IAG), becoming the very first ground handling company chosen for IAG’s new Preferred Partner Programme. The agreement lays the groundwork for an expanded, long-term alliance designed to deliver innovation, consistency and enduring value as IAG strengthens ties with a select circle of strategic suppliers.
Strategic partnership with IAG focuses on operational excellence and innovation
David Barker, Regional Chief Executive Officer – Americas at dnata, said: “We are proud to be the first partner selected for IAG’s new supplier programme. This recognition reflects our strong operational track record, commitment to innovation, and ability to support our customers’ strategic goals. We look forward to growing our partnership and delivering high-impact solutions that support IAG’s evolving needs across the USA and beyond.”
Gurm Nijjer, Group Procurement Director – Airports at IAG, said: “Our Preferred Partner Programme is a strategic initiative to generate long-term value for IAG and its customers by aligning with a select group of high-performing suppliers. This approach reflects our commitment to operational excellence, cost-effective delivery and the use of technology to continuously elevate the passenger experience. The partnership spans a number of locations across North America and includes both long-term contract extensions and new business – including the recent award of ground handling services at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for Group IAG airlines. We look forward to deepening this relationship in support of our shared goals around innovation, efficiency and scalable growth.”
Operations under the new contracts are slated to begin in Q4 2025, supporting IAG’s wider plan to optimise ground handling, standardise service delivery and secure lasting value across key North American airports. Additional opportunities are expected to emerge as the Preferred Partner Programme rolls out further phases.
Media contact:
dnata Public Relations
public.relations@dnata.com
SOURCE: dnata
