Silk Road Group and dnata launch a landmark joint project to establish an aviation services center in Azerbaijan

• Silk Road Group, a leading private aviation and logistics company based in Azerbaijan, has signed a joint venture agreement with dnata, a leading global aviation and travel services company, to establish ground handling and cargo operations at the new Alat International Airport, located within the Alat Free Economic Zone in Baku.
• The project, scheduled to be launched with the opening of the new terminal in April 2027, represents a major investment in the future of Azerbaijan’s aviation and logistics sectors. It will combine dnata’s global expertise and Silk Way Group’s leadership in the local market to provide comprehensive aviation services in the country.

The advanced logistics facilities at Alat International Airport will be able to handle more than 400,000 tons of cargo annually, with an expected annual growth in volume of 5 percent over the next decade.

The joint venture will initially focus on freight and ground handling, before expanding to include catering, freight forwarding, de-icing and a range of additional services. The aim is to build a one-stop-shop for airlines and airport customers in Baku, offering efficiency and world-class service standards.

The project is expected to generate more than 1,000 local jobs, while investing in skills development and training to create long-term opportunities in Azerbaijan’s aviation sector.

Dnata is a long-standing partner of the Silk Way Group, as it currently provides a range of air services to Silk Way West Airlines in five countries, handling 1,150 flights and 85,000 tons of cargo annually.

Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, said: “Our joint venture with Silk Road Group is an important step in expanding dnata’s global presence and supporting rapid growth in the Caucasus region. The new Baku Airport will be a critical hub for freight flows in the region, and our investment ensures that airlines and logistics partners receive safe, high-quality and reliable services from day one.”

He added: “Beyond operational excellence, this project reflects our long-term strategy to provide integrated aviation solutions in high-potential markets. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Silk Road Group to support the aviation and logistics industries, businesses and wider communities in Azerbaijan.”

Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Road Group, said: “Our partnership with dnata represents a new milestone in the development of the aviation industry in Azerbaijan. Together we are forming a modern ecosystem that will connect the Alagat Free Economic Zone to the global aviation and logistics network. This joint project represents not only an investment in infrastructure, but also an investment in people, creating new jobs, developing professional skills, It builds a sustainable foundation.” Growth. Establishing aviation services at Alat International Airport is a strategic step towards realizing our vision of transforming Azerbaijan into a leading regional hub.

Alat International Airport: a regional aviation hub

Alat International Airport is located in the Alat Free Economic Zone and will include 18 aircraft platforms, a 4,000-meter runway and taxiway, in addition to an air traffic control center. The project aims to enhance the country’s transportation capabilities and stimulate the overall economic development of the surrounding region.

When completed in 2027, the broader Alaat Free Economic Zone will become a prominent transit hub, featuring integrated logistics infrastructure. The region will benefit from direct access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port and extensive railway and highway networks, collectively enhancing Azerbaijan’s transportation and distribution capabilities.