DHL Supply Chain has been appointed as the ground handling partner for SAS Scandinavian Airlines at Manchester Airport under a new three-year agreement.

DHL will support up to five SAS flights per day at Manchester, providing baggage operations, customer service, aircraft loading, dispatch and pushback services for flights connecting the UK with Scandinavia and SAS' wider international network.

The new operation was mobilized in 30 days, according to DHL, which said the transition was completed while maintaining service continuity.

“We’re delighted to be partnering with SAS at Manchester Airport,” said David Johnson, interim managing director, Healthcare & Specialist Logistics, DHL Supply Chain UKI. “Mobilising a new operation in just 30 days required a huge team effort and demonstrates the agility and expertise of our aviation teams.”

Johnson said ground handling plays a critical role in airline performance, adding that DHL will focus on providing safe, reliable and efficient service for SAS and its passengers.

The agreement expands DHL Supply Chain's ground handling presence in the UK. The company has provided ground handling services for easyJet at Manchester Airport since 2019, following the start of its relationship with the airline at London Gatwick Airport in 2017.

Earlier this year, DHL also added Air France to its ground handling portfolio at Gatwick, where it provides passenger, ramp and baggage services for the airline.

“Delivering a reliable travel experience for our customers depends on strong performance across every part of our operation,” said Hans Henrik Spangenberg, managing director of SAS Ground Handling International. “Manchester is an important gateway for SAS, connecting customers across the UK with Scandinavia and our wider international network.”

Spangenberg said DHL's ability to mobilize the Manchester operation within a short timeframe helped support a smooth transition.

The three-year SAS agreement further builds DHL's aviation services business as the logistics company expands its role providing ground handling operations for international airlines at UK airports.