dnata and Silk Way Group have signed a joint venture agreement to establish ground handling and cargo operations at Alat International Airport in Baku’s Alat Free Economic Zone.
The venture will launch with the opening of the new terminal in April 2027. It combines dnata’s expertise with Silk Way Group’s market presence to deliver aviation services in Azerbaijan.
Alat International Airport’s logistics facilities will handle more than 500,000 tonnes of cargo per year, with a projected volume growth of 5% annually over the next decade.
dnata expands operations in Azerbaijan through Silk Way Group partnership
The joint venture will begin with cargo and ground handling operations before expanding into catering, freight forwarding, de-icing, and other services. The partnership aims to create a platform for airlines and airport customers in Baku.
The project will generate over 1,000 jobs. Investment in skills development and training will create opportunities in Azerbaijan’s aviation sector.
dnata is a partner of Silk Way Group. The company provides air services to Silk Way West Airlines across five countries, handling 1,150 flights and 85,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
“Our joint venture with the Silk Way Group is an important step in expanding dnata’s global footprint and supporting the Caucasus region’s rapid growth. Baku’s new airport will be a critical hub for cargo flows in the region, and our investment ensures that airlines and logistics partners have access to safe, quality, and reliable services from day one,” Steve Allen, CEO of dnata said in a statement.
“Beyond operational excellence, this venture reflects our long-term strategy to provide integrated aviation solutions in high-potential markets. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Silk Way Group to support Azerbaijan’s aviation and logistics industries, businesses and wider communities,” he added.
Infrastructure development at Alat Free Economic Zone
“Our partnership with dnata marks a new milestone in the development of Azerbaijan’s aviation industry. Together, we are shaping a modern ecosystem that will connect the Alat Free Economic Zone with the global aviation and logistics network. This joint venture represents not only an investment in infrastructure but also in people — creating new jobs, developing professional skills, and building a foundation for sustainable growth. The establishment of aviation services at Alat International Airport is a strategic step toward realising our vision of transforming Azerbaijan into a leading regional hub,” Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group explained.
Alat International Airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000-metre runway and taxiway, and an air traffic control centre. The project is designed to enhance the country’s transportation capabilities and stimulate the development of the region.
Upon completion in 2027, the Alat Free Economic Zone will become a transit hub with logistics infrastructure. The zone will have access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port, railway and motorway networks, enhancing Azerbaijan’s transportation and distribution capabilities.
