South African black woman-majority-owned aircraft ground-handling company NAS Colossal Africa Aviation Services (Colossal) and Belgium-based international ground-handling and ground services group Aviapartner have announced that they have entered into a strategic partnership to create Colossal Aviapartner. Colossal currently operates at six South African airports, including the ‘big three’ of OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), King Shaka International Airport (Durban), and Cape Town International Airport. Aviapartner’s network covers airports in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain.

“This partnership is a commitment to our shared vision of pioneering solutions and delivering world-class solutions,” affirmed Colossal Aviapartner shareholder Cingashe Motale. “We are excited to embark on this journey with Aviapartner.”

“This venture is a testament to our dedication to delivering world-class services and investing in growth markets,” highlighted Aviapartner CEO Richard Prince. “We are excited to embark on this journey with Colossal and look forward to a prosperous future.”

Both partners believe that this joint venture has great potential to transform Africa’s aviation landscape. The new company wants to surpass the current standards in the industry and bring in a new era of ground-handling on the continent.

“Our partnership with Aviapartner signals our unwavering dedication to setting new industry benchmarks,” stated Colossal Aviapartner CEO Mbongeni Manqele. “Together, we will drive innovation and growth in our sector.”

The new venture benefits from significant investments already made in ground service equipment, which will ensure the rapid and efficient servicing of aviation sector clients. These clients include both local and international carriers, including major global airlines such as British Airways, Emirates and Etihad Airways.

“The Colossal Aviapartner brand will soon be seen across airports around the country, as this union takes shape,” said the company in its statement. “As the aviation sector continues to evolve, this collaboration aims to redefine the future of ground handling services in Africa, setting a new precedent for the global aviation industry.”