Menzies grows Hungary footprint with AS Budapest agreement
AS Budapest will transfer its ground handling and cargo operations to Menzies, gaining a minority stake in Menzies’ Hungary-based entities.
Menzies Aviation, a leading global aviation services provider, has finalised its strategic partnership with Airport Service Budapest Zrt. (AS Budapest) after securing approval from the Hungarian Competition Authority. The move opens up new opportunities to serve a broader range of customers and partners, according to an official release from Menzies Aviation.
As part of the agreement, AS Budapest will transfer its ground handling and cargo operations to Menzies Aviation, while acquiring a minority stake in Menzies Aviation Hungary Kft. and Menzies Aviation Cargo Hungary Kft. The Hungarian company will now operate under the Menzies global brand, which spans over 300 airports across 65 countries.
AS Budapest’s employees will transition to Menzies Aviation Hungary Kft. and Menzies Aviation Cargo Hungary Kft., ensuring service continuity and bringing local expertise into Menzies’ Budapest operations.
Together, the companies will manage over 2,500 flights and handle more than 12,000 tonnes of cargo each month at Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport (BUD), supported by a workforce of over 1,000 employees. The partnership will span all key operational areas, including passenger services, baggage handling, cargo logistics, aircraft cleaning, de-icing, aircraft security, and airside transport.
“Finalising this partnership with AS Budapest is a positive step in expanding our European footprint and enhancing service levels at Budapest Airport. By combining the local knowledge and operational strengths of both AS Budapest and Menzies, we’re uniquely positioned to meet rising demand and deliver first-class services to airlines, passengers, and airport partners. 2024 broke all previous records in the airport’s history, signalling robust growth ahead. With 20 million passengers expected by 2030, we’re excited to support Budapest Airport on this growth journey as it reinforces its role as a leading regional hub,” says Miguel Gomez Sjunnesson, EVP Europe, Menzies Aviation.
The agreement marks a significant milestone for Menzies’ BUD operation, creating opportunities to deliver more efficient, high-quality ground handling and cargo services for airline customers. This partnership follows Menzies’ investment in a state-of-the-art facility in BUD’s Cargo City in 2024, which saw a 3,000sqm warehouse expansion, a new 1,500sqm manoeuvring area for truck and ground support equipment (GSE), and 300sqm office and social space, the release added.
