DHL Supply Chain has been appointed by Air France-KLM to provide comprehensive ground handling services at London Gatwick Airport (LGW) as the airline launches its new London–Paris route. The partnership marks an expansion of DHL’s airport operations portfolio in the UK and underscores its expertise in supporting international carriers.
Under the agreement, DHL will manage the full spectrum of ground operations, including:
- Baggage handling and customer service
- Aircraft loading, dispatch, and pushback
- Cabin cleaning and aircraft turnaround services
The services will support Air France’s new twice-daily flights between London Gatwick and Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), operated using Airbus A220 aircraft. The route is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers, enhancing connectivity between the UK and continental Europe.
David Johnson, VP Operations, Aviation & Travel, DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, said:
“We’re excited to be partnering with Air France as it launches this new route. Ground operations are critical to keeping airline schedules running smoothly, and our role is to bring the service and technical expertise needed to keep every turnaround running to plan.”
Jerome Salemi, General Manager UK & Ireland, Air France, added:
“We are delighted to launch our new services from London Gatwick, further strengthening Air France’s commitment to the UK market and enhancing connectivity via our hub at Paris Charles de Gaulle. As we welcome our customers on board from Gatwick, we are confident that our partnership with DHL for ground handling will ensure a seamless and reliable experience from the very first day.”
Air France-KLM, one of the world’s largest airline groups, carried 98 million passengers in 2025, serving more than 320 destinations across 90 countries. In the UK, the airline operates at 18 airports, feeding into its dual-hub network at Paris CDG and Amsterdam Schiphol, establishing it as a major international operator in the region.
