The next time you travel, the ground support handling services – such as luggage handling or shuttle services to the plane – might be provided by Colossal Aviapartner. As a major airport ground services provider in Sub-Saharan Africa, the company has made a notable investment in electric and hybrid-powered ground support equipment.
Colossal Aviapartner, a joint venture between Colossal Africa and Aviapartner, is strategically positioned to capitalize on Africa’s expanding aviation market. Colossal Africa, led by black women, brings regional expertise, while Aviapartner, a global leader in aviation services, provides international reach and best practices. This partnership has enabled Colossal Aviapartner to secure service agreements with major airlines such as South African Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, and British Airways.
This significant investment comes at a time when South Africa’s aviation sector is poised for substantial growth. Over the next 20 years, the country’s air transport sector is projected to expand by 105%, potentially adding 21 million passenger journeys by 2037. This growth is expected to support 800,000 jobs and contribute $19 billion annually to the GDP. Across Africa, the aviation industry continues to drive economic activity, sustaining millions of jobs and generating $63 billion annually pre-pandemic.
Colossal Aviapartner’s transition from diesel to electric and hybrid ground support equipment marks a pivotal shift in reducing its carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. This new equipment, sourced from leading manufacturers in the USA, France, and China, is designed for durability and lower maintenance, minimizing downtime, speeding up service, and improving tracking. This upgrade aims to reduce delays, boost on-time performance, and strengthen Colossal Aviapartner’s reputation for top-quality service.
The company operates one of the region’s few IATA-certified training centers, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to handle the new technology. Colossal Aviapartner is dedicated to creating opportunities for skilled aviation professionals and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. With 49% black ownership and a workforce of 3163 employees, the company is a significant player in the African aviation industry.
David Boutillier, Aviapartner’s Chief Executive for Africa, commented, “This investment strengthens our operations across Africa. Adopting electric and hybrid technology enhances service quality and reinforces our commitment to sustainability.” Mbongeni Manqele, CEO of Colossal Aviapartner, added, “We are confident in the future of African aviation. This investment marks just the beginning of our efforts to boost sustainability, innovation, and service excellence across the industry.”
Colossal Aviapartner offers a comprehensive range of services including cargo handling, passenger handling, ramp handling, and aircraft grooming. It also provides executive concierge and VIP charter handling services, ensuring a seamless experience for high-profile travelers. The company manages cargo and mail logistics for efficient movement and storage, ensures optimal aircraft performance through check-in, flight coordination, and load control, and covers loading and unloading, baggage services, passenger transport, and essential equipment like Passenger Boarding Bridges, Ground Power Units, and pushback services. Additionally, it offers cabin cleaning, toilet and water services, and deep cleaning for aircraft upkeep.
Operating at key South African airports such as O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport, King Shaka International Airport in Durban, George Airport, King Phalo Airport in East London, and Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport in Gqeberha, Colossal Aviapartner is a prominent ground-handling services provider. The company handles over 85,000 flights annually, manages approximately 370,000 tons of cargo per year, and serves over 13 million passengers each year. It works with more than 28 major airlines, including renowned international carriers like Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles, Ethiopian Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and Emirates.
Colossal Aviapartner’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its recent investment in 146 new units of ground service equipment, with more than 70% being electric or hybrid. This strategic effort significantly lowers emissions and reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The integration of advanced telematics with geolocation and the state-of-the-art RIMSES maintenance system improves operational efficiency and tracking, ensuring that equipment is optimized for peak performance. Comprehensive training programs promote sustainable practices and safe equipment use among employees, enhancing job satisfaction and operational safety.
