Global Cargo and Aircraft Ground Handling

Finnair is in negotiations with Swissport International, the world’s leading provider of ground services to the aviation sector, about its baggage and apron services at Helsinki Airport. The aim is to conclude negotiations before the end of the year.

“Developing partnership networks is part of Finnair’s key strategy. Swissport is a global professional organisation that has strong expertise in ground handling services. With the cooperation, we aim for even better quality and cost-efficiency,” said Finnair’s Chief Operating Officer Ville Iho.

Juan Jose Andres Alvez, Executive Vice President Ground Handling EMEA (Europe/Middle East/Asia/Africa) of Swissport International, said: “I am extremely excited about these negotiations to cooperate with Finnair at their hub in Helsinki in the future, to help build them a strong platform with our services for the benefit of Finnair’s growth strategy. Our Swissport Formula offers Finnair innovation and flexibility, combined with high levels of reliability and quality.”

The employees working for Barona Handling, currently executing Finnair’s ramp handling activities in the Helsinki hub, would transfer to the service of Swissport under their present terms of employment if Swissport and Finnair reach an agreement.

Swissport International plans to establish a ground-handling organisation in Helsinki capable of offering the full range of ground-handling services to all airlines operating at Helsinki airport.

Swissport International Ltd provides ground services for around 100 million passengers and 3.2 million tonnes of cargo a year (the latter using 98 warehouses with a total floor area of over 360,000 square metres) on behalf of some 650 client-companies in the aviation sector. With a workforce of around 35.000 personnel, Swissport is active at 180 stations in 36 countries on five continents, and generated consolidated operating revenue of CHF 1.7 billion in 2010. www.swissport.com