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Swissport secures ground handling license at Frankfurt Airport

Swissport secures ground handling license at Frankfurt Airport
The seven-year license, valid until January 2032, will make Frankfurt Airport Swissport’s largest site in Germany and a key location in Europe.

Swissport plans to invest in cutting-edge electric ground support equipment at Frankfurt Airport, which complements the broader environmental objectives of airport operator Fraport.

Swissport International AG has secured a significant milestone by obtaining a license to offer ground handling services at Frankfurt Airport, Germany, Commencing on February 1, 2025. Swissport plans to invest in cutting-edge electric ground support equipment at Frankfurt Airport, which complements the broader environmental objectives of airport operator Fraport; to eliminate carbon emissions at its airports by 2045.

Swissport’s latest achievement comes as part of a competitive international tender process. The seven-year license, extending until January 2032, will establish Frankfurt Airport as Swissport’s largest operational site in Germany and one of its most crucial locations in Europe. 

this new license enhances Swissport’s strong position in the aviation sector and represents its largest site in Germany and one of its most crucial operations in Europe.

Warwick Brady, President & CEO, Swissport International AG, said, “The license win is an important milestone for Swissport, and we look forward to serving airlines at Frankfurt Airport. Swissport is a leader in managing large complex airport operations, and Frankfurt further adds scale to our business. We will continue to provide a competitive advantage for our airline customers by consistently delivering operational excellence to drive performance and service excellence to influence passengers’ experience positively. And we are keen to enable a smooth transition, ensuring job stability for the employees of the current ground handler and continued high-quality service.”

Swissport has a long-standing presence at Frankfurt Airport, having operated its cargo handling unit there since 1995. In November 2020, the company further strengthened its position with the opening of a state-of-the-art air cargo warehouse and a modern pharma center at Cargo City Süd. In 2023, Swissport Cargo in Frankfurt managed 135,000 tons of freight and employed 180 staff members. Additionally, Swissport’s subsidiaries N*ICE and AFS have provided de-icing and fueling services at the airport since 1999 and 1988, respectively.

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Swissport has been active at Frankfurt Airport since 1995 with its cargo handling operations, and the company’s subsidiary NICE has provided de-icing services since 1999, while AFS has been responsible for fueling services since 1988. In 2023, Swissport’s cargo unit handled 135,000 tons of freight and employed 180 staff, with NICE and AFS employing 47 and 78 staff, respectively.