Air Mauritius Rejects Report on Dnata Groundhandling Deal

Air Mauritius has denied claims that it is in advanced discussions to outsource its groundhandling operations to Dubai-based airport services provider Dnata. Responding to recent media reports, a spokesperson for the airline told ch-aviation, “We are not aware of anything like this.”

The denial follows a report by local newspaper Le Mauricien, which cited unnamed sources alleging that parent company Airport Holdings Ltd (AHL) was spearheading a strategic overhaul of Air Mauritius, including outsourcing ground services to cut costs and streamline operations. The report suggested that the move could impact hundreds of employees working in check-in, baggage handling, ramp services, and cargo operations.

According to the report, the outsourcing discussions are taking place amid ongoing labor unrest, with several industrial disputes currently pending before Mauritius’ Conciliation and Mediation Commission. Some of these disputes have reportedly remained unresolved for more than two years. Union representatives have accused management of using delay tactics, increasing uncertainty and anxiety among the workforce.

Despite the speculation, Air Mauritius maintains that no such deal is in progress and that it has no knowledge of outsourcing negotiations with Dnata or any other third-party service provider.

The airline has been undergoing operational restructuring under the guidance of AHL, which has included efforts to improve efficiency and return the carrier to profitability. However, the company insists that no decisions affecting staff or core operations, such as groundhandling, have been finalized or approved.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com