We leverage partnerships with 2,500+ suppliers worldwide to secure
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (IATA: NLA, ICAO: FLSP), located in Ndola, is the second major international airport in Zambia after Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.
Its ground handling services are crucial for supporting copper belt region mining operations, cargo flights, and passenger travel.
Unlike some major airports where multiple companies compete, ground handling at NLA is primarily provided by a single, dominant entity.
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) serves over 86 million passengers annually, requiring flawless ground operations.
Our Network Plan team delivers 24/7 premium ground handling services that meet NLA exacting standards for:
✔ Commercial airlines needing rapid turnarounds
✔ Private jet operators requiring VIP treatment
✔ Cargo carriers moving time-sensitive freight
✔ Special mission flights demanding security
Our services address these pain points, providing 24/7 Airport Ground Handling Services at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport tailored to your operational needs.
Service Category | Specific Activities at NLA |
Ramp Services | – Aircraft Marshalling: Guiding the aircraft to and from the parking stand. – Aircraft Loading/Unloading: Using baggage carts (ULD Dollies) and conveyor belt loaders. – Pushback & Towing: Using a tow tractor for aircraft departure. – Porterage: Handling of passenger baggage in the terminal. |
Passenger Services | – Check-in Counters & Baggage Drop: Managing passenger processing. – Gate Management: Boarding and disembarkation control. – Arrival Services: Managing baggage claim carousels. – Special Assistance: Providing help for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). |
Cargo & Mail Handling | – Warehousing: Secure storage for import/export cargo. – Documentation: Processing air waybills and customs docs. – Transportation: Moving cargo between the warehouse and the aircraft on cargo dollies and pallets. This is a high-volume service at NLA due to mining-related freight. |
Aircraft Services | – Fueling: Arranged by the handler but typically performed by a dedicated fuel supplier like Total Energies or Vivo Energy (Shell-branded). The handler coordinates the request. – Catering: Coordination with third-party catering companies to load meals. – Lavatory & Water Service: Cleaning and replenishing aircraft water systems. |
Security & Operations | – Weight & Balance: Calculating the aircraft’s load sheet for the pilots. – Aircraft Security: Monitoring access to the aircraft on the ramp. – Communication: Acting as the central point of contact between the airline, crew, airport authority, and other service providers. |
Reliable fuel services here prevent delays, reduce costs, and maintain Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe reputation as a world-class aviation hub.
Round-the-clock support for all flight schedules.
Leverage our supplier network for competitive pricing.
Emergency fuel delivery within 45 minutes of request.
: Adherence to GCAA, IATA, and international safety protocols.
✅ Speed: 35-minute MCT for connecting flights
✅ Certifications: ISAGO, IATA AHM, ISO 9001
✅ Technology: AI-powered baggage handling
✅ Flexibility: 24/7/365 operations
✅ Cost Control: Transparent pricing models
✔ Direct Airport Authority Relationships
✔ Advanced Operational Analytics
✔ Sustainable Practices (electric GSE)
✔ Crisis Management Expertise
National Airport Corporation Limited (NACL) / Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL)
Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is a critical cargo hub for Zambia. The ground handling services are vital for the economy because they support:
This makes the efficiency and reliability of the cargo handling services provided by NACL absolutely essential.
In summary, ground handling at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport is characterized by a state-run monopoly model provided by the National Airport Corporation Limited (NACL).
They offer a complete range of ramp, passenger, and crucially, cargo handling services, which are the economic lifeblood of the airport.
While a few major airlines may self-handle certain aspects, most carriers rely entirely on NACL for their operations in Ndola.
The performance of this single provider is therefore directly linked to the overall efficiency and reputation of the airport itself.
From routine refueling to crisis management, The Network Plan ensures Airport Ground Handling Services at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport
Contact us for a free fuel audit or to discuss custom supply agreements!