RAK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT APPOINTS GROUND HANDLING COMPANY

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, 30 January 2012: RAK International Airport has announced it has awarded a ground handling operations contract to National Aviation Services (NAS), the region’s fastest growing ground handling company, marking a first of its kind agreement for an airport in the UAE.

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, under the vision and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council, continues to see strong growth in both commercial and tourism sectors.  RAK International Airport is experiencing increased activity in line with this growth.

Under the terms of the contract NAS will provide RAK International Airport with a comprehensive ground handling service which will include ramp handling in addition to check-in, arrival, transit and cargo services. In addition to its core services, Pearl Assist, NAS’s worldwide network of lounge and meet and assist services will be available at RAK International Airport.

Andrew Gower, Airport Director RAK International Airport, said, “With the rapid growth forecast for RAK International Airport, it is important that we focus our efforts on operating the airport as a business not a service. 

Outsourcing ground handling is a vital part of our on-going development plan.”
Gower added, “It was essential to find the right service partner that not only shares our vision and commitment to service, but equally believes in the potential of Ras Al Khaimah. NAS has a proven track record and reputation in the industry and their overall approach and refreshing attitude to change made them the ideal partner.”  

Headquartered in Kuwait, NAS is an internationally reputed aviation services provider with a strong regional presence that serves airlines and airports worldwide.
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About RAK International Airport
Inaugurated in 1976 by H.H. Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi- RAK International Airport is currently celebrating 35 years of operation. Located 18 kms from the city, the airport is modern with state of the art equipment and boasts a 3,760 meter long runway capable of handling the biggest aircraft currently in service.  6 scheduled carriers and over 25 charter airlines fly through RAK Airport. RAK Airport was the second airport in the GCC to secure the ISO 9001: 2000 accreditation for quality management.