dnata has confirmed that construction of its new cargo facility at Zurich Airport is progressing well and remains on track for an early 2027 opening.
The handler said the new dnata Cargo Centre is part of a long-term investment strategy aimed at supporting growth, improving efficiency and enhancing service reliability in Switzerland. The company handled 56,000 tonnes of cargo in Zurich in 2025, up nearly 4% from the previous year, reflecting steady demand and the need for expanded infrastructure.
Once operational, the facility will raise dnata’s freight handling capacity in Zurich by 50%, increasing it from 60,000 to 90,000 tonnes. It will include 8,330 sq m of warehouse space, including 7,580 sq m dedicated to indoor cargo handling, as well as 4,600 sq m of covered outdoor handling area.
The site will be equipped with two truck docks for ULD handling and 18 dock levellers to improve landside access and speed up turnaround times. Storage capacity will also be expanded to support larger cargo flows.
One of the major features will be a dedicated 1,000 sq m pharma area designed for GDP-compliant handling, with temperature-controlled zones covering both 2-8°C and 15-25°C ranges. An advanced ULD material handling system will also help improve throughput and operational control.
dnata said the move will allow it to shift operations from its current Fracht West warehouse, a facility dating from the 1960s that has reached its practical limits. The transition to the new site will be handled in stages to ensure service continuity throughout the relocation process.
Zurich Airport is investing more than CHF40m in the building itself, while dnata is contributing around CHF6m for equipment, including the ULD system.
Managing director Willy Ruf said the new centre reflects the way cargo at Zurich has evolved over the past decade, with tighter turnaround expectations, higher volumes and a growing share of specialized freight.
