In short:
Avalon Airport has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Emirates Group company dnata to explore opportunities to strengthen international freight services. The agreement supports Avalon’s ambition to grow as a key international cargo gateway and improve global supply chain connections.
Wyndham's Global Commerce Prospects Increase
Melbourne Avalon Airport has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global aviation and travel services provider dnata in a move aimed at strengthening the airport’s position as an international freight gateway.
Dnata is part of the Emirates Group and provides ground handling, cargo, travel and catering services at airports around the world.
The agreement, signed on 15 July, will see Avalon Cargo Melbourne and dnata explore opportunities to strengthen freight capability, improve supply chain efficiency and attract future international cargo services through Melbourne Avalon Airport.
The announcement was made by Melbourne Avalon Airport CEO Ari Suss, Deputy Premier Ben Carroll and dnata Australia CEO Burt Sigsworth.
Mr Suss said the collaboration would help connect local exporters with international markets.
“Collaborations like this enable us to connect local exporters with world-class freight expertise and create new opportunities for trade between Australia, the UAE and beyond,” he said.
The agreement builds on Avalon’s recent expansion, including the opening of its international freight facility, which can process up to 100,000 tonnes of cargo annually, and the return of Jetstar international services.
Local Businesses Eager About Development
Committee for Wyndham CEO Leanne Down said the announcement highlighted the opportunities Avalon Airport presented for Melbourne’s west as Wyndham continued to grow.
“For Committee for Wyndham, today’s announcement reinforces the enormous opportunity on our doorstep. As Wyndham continues to experience significant population and business growth, a stronger Avalon Airport creates new opportunities for local businesses, enhances international connectivity, strengthens supply chains and supports thousands of future jobs across Melbourne’s west,” she said.
Ms Down said Avalon was much more than a lower-cost alternative to Melbourne Airport.
“One message resonated throughout the morning – Melbourne Avalon Airport is far more than a lower-cost alternative to Melbourne Airport. It is a critical second international gateway for Victoria, providing additional capacity, greater choice and strengthening the state’s aviation network.”
The partnership is expected to support Avalon’s long-term plans to expand its international freight operations, strengthen Victoria’s connections to global supply chains and create new opportunities for exporters across Melbourne’s west.
