dnata to open new advanced animal handling centre in Amsterdam
Purpose-built 2,380m² facility to enhance care standards for animal transport
DUBAI: dnata, a global air and travel services provider, will open a state-of-the-art animal handling centre at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport this summer.
The 2,380m² facility, part of dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, aims to transform live animal transport standards across Europe.
Featuring purpose-built infrastructure and modern features, the centre is positioned to become a leading hub for safe, humane, and regulated animal logistics.
Animal-centric design
The temperature-controlled centre will offer secure accommodation for a wide range of animals, with carefully planned elements such as quiet zones, adjustable lighting, and separate holding areas. The design incorporates dedicated stables with capacity for over 70 horses, supported by stringent biosecurity measures. A resident veterinarian will be available on-site to ensure consistent care.
The facility is built to comply with the International Air Transport Association’s CEIV Live Animals certification standards. dnata’s team undergoes regular training based on IATA’s Live Animals Regulations (LAR), reinforcing the company’s commitment to quality and compliance.
Live animal transport
The move comes as demand for live animal transport continues to rise. In 2024, nearly 200,000 shipments of live animals were recorded globally – an 11% rise compared to 2019. dnata managed 22,500 individual animal shipments at Schiphol last year alone.
“Our new animal handling centre is built entirely around animal wellbeing,” said Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director of dnata Netherlands. “From calm surroundings to expert care, every detail supports a safe and comfortable journey.”
Benelux expansion
The Amsterdam centre complements dnata’s 2,000m² Animal Care & Inspection Centre in Brussels, reinforcing its footprint in specialist cargo services across the Benelux region.
The centre is part of the 61,000m² dnata Cargo City Amsterdam complex, opening this July. With automation and advanced logistics capabilities, the hub will handle over 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, and aircraft components. dnata currently serves 25 airlines in Amsterdam with a workforce of more than 1,000 professionals.