Swissport, the global leader in aviation services, has signed a share purchase agreement to acquire a majority stake in CV Handling, the main ground handling provider across seven airports in Cabo Verde. This acquisition enhances Swissport’s presence in Africa, where it already operates 30 stations in six countries including Algeria, Morocco, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa.
As part of a competitive privatization process led by the Cabo Verdean government among major international aviation services providers, Swissport was selected as the preferred bidder and purchaser of a controlling stake in CV Handling across multiple evaluation criteria, reflecting its strong contribution to the company’s strategic, commercial, operational, people, environmental, and financial development. With Swissport as majority shareholder, CV Handling will gain access to Swissport’s global operational standards, advanced digital solutions, and its international network.
This strategic step underscores Swissport’s ambition to accelerate growth across its core business lines -ground handling, air cargo, and aviation hospitality- both in established markets and new geographies through strong organic growth and strategic M&A. The investment strengthens Swissport’s footprint in Africa and positions it for continued expansion across the region’s fast-growing aviation markets.
The acquisition expands Swissport’s global portfolio of complex hub operations and enhances its exposure to high-growth international travel markets. Air traffic plays a vital role in domestic connectivity, national cohesion, and international access for Cabo Verde, supporting tourism and attracting foreign investment. Swissport looks forward to partnering with the government to contribute to the country’s rapid development as a provider of mission-critical airport services.
Swissport combines strong financial backing with operational excellence, supported by innovation, digitalisation, and a commitment to people development. The company takes a long-term approach to sustainable growth, aligned with the Republic of Cabo Verde’s Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development (PEDS II) and its government’s aviation investment roadmap.
“We are building a long-term strategic partnership with Cabo Verde’s aviation community, including airports, airlines, and the government,” said Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International. “We are determined to help develop a resilient, future-ready ground handling operator that supports the country’s economic growth, tourism and connectivity over the long term. We will invest in innovation, sustainability, and people – key drivers of our success. By combining Swiss efficiency with Cabo Verdean hospitality, we will provide the best service with the highest standards of operational excellence and safety to our customers and partners across the country.”
The company plans to invest millions in infrastructure upgrades, operational improvements, and the introduction of advanced digital tools and training facilities. It will also leverage its global expertise across ground handling, air cargo, airport lounges and fuelling operations to elevate the ground operations and service levels at the airports. Sal and Praia will benefit from that as they continue to build their positioning as regional aviation hubs.
People and development
A central pillar of Swissport’s approach is the development of local talent. The company will establish a dedicated Swissport Training Academy in Cabo Verde, working in partnership with its global talent acquisition and leadership development programmes to support career progression and long-term workforce readiness.
Dirk Goovaerts, CEO Continental Europe, Middle East, Africa, India & Global Cargo Chair at Swissport, said: “Swissport is committed to fostering an inclusive and locally rooted workforce, creating a safe and motivating work environment that promotes diversity, belonging, and excellence. We also see a unique opportunity to align Swissport’s sustainability programme with Cabo Verde’s national vision contributing to economic growth through local partnerships while advancing its pathway to net-zero emissions.”
Recognised among the top 1% of companies globally for sustainability and responsible business practices by EcoVadis, Swissport is leading the green transition of the aviation services sector, with 26% of its ground support equipment fleet already electrified.
Swissport serves approximately 850 airline customers worldwide, including major carriers operating in Cabo Verde such as TUI, easyJet, and LATAM.
This investment establishes a partnership between Cabo Verde and a world-class airport services provider, with a shared commitment to advancing the aviation ecosystem through investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.
The closing of the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
