It has been some time coming, perhaps, but the first green turnaround has finally been executed. Dnata achieved this significant milestone in its sustainability journey by successfully executing a green turnaround at JFK in November. The handler ensured a smooth and safe turnaround of a VivaAerobus Airbus A320 aircraft using only zero-emission ramp ground support equipment at Terminal 1.
During the green turnaround, dnata’s team transported baggage with electric baggage tractors to the aircraft and applied electric conveyor belts to offload and load baggage and cargo. Staff pushed the aircraft back from the gate with a Mototok electric, remote controlled towbarless pushback tractor, positioning it ready for taxi and departure. David Barker, CEO of dnata USA, commented on the exercise.
“We are thrilled to achieve this memorable milestone by using only green equipment to deliver a smooth airport experience for passengers, and ensure safe and timely departure of our customer’s flight.
“We constantly invest in infrastructure and equipment to improve operational efficiency and reduce our carbon footprint. We are committed to converting our USA fleet to electric GSE to preserve our environment for future generations. We continue to enhance our operations to deliver the highest possible value for our partners by being an employer of choice and socially responsible in our communities.”

Virgin Atlantic Cargo is to launch a new cargo service from London Heathrow to San Juan.

Commencing on November 24, it is the first time that the airline has operated a cargo schedule to Puerto Rico and it will be serving the destination twice weekly on a Boeing 787-9 aircraft.

This new fast, efficient cargo service will present new opportunities for companies looking to export and import goods such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices and electronic devices between prime markets in the UK and Europe and Puerto Rico.

Dominic Kennedy, Managing Director at Virgin Atlantic Cargo, said: “We are delighted to welcome San Juan to our network, and we are excited about the new growth opportunities this presents for our customers. Over 11m kilogrammes of cargo move between Puerto Rico and Europe each month and we are confident Virgin Atlantic Cargo will gain a healthy share of this market.”