Swissport snags deal with low-cost African carrier

   fastjet, a low-cost African carrier built in the mode of easyjet, has signed an agreement with Swissport for ground-handling services throughout its burgeoning network.
   The carrier is to commence operations Thursday from its base in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, using three Airbus A319 aircraft, flying to Kilimanjaro and Mwanza.
   The agreement calls for Swissport to step in to support growth of the supply chain and supply a number of airport services.
   “Swissport has a huge amount of experience in LCC handling in Europe, and we look forward to assisting fastjet in building up this model in Africa, supported by our knowledge and processes,” Swissport’s Juan Jose Andres Alvez, a vice president in charge of ground handling for the region, said in a statement. “This partnership includes all of the logistics challenges involved in setting up a network of ground-handling operations and management systems, representing a new type of relationship between service provider and airline.”
   According to fastjet Chief Executive Officer Ed Winter, the deal with Swissport will help the carrier achieve its goal to create a pan-African airline.
   Swissport has had a busy month, partnering earlier with Finnair for baggage and apron services at Helsinki Airport, and securing a cargo-handling contract at Tokyo Narita Airport. – Jon Ross