Menzies Aviation strengthens commitment to Portugal with full acquisition of SPdH

Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, has completed the acquisition of the remaining 49.9% stake in SPdH from TAP Air Portugal, becoming the sole shareholder of the company.

The transaction was approved by the Portuguese Court of Auditors and builds on Menzies’ initial acquisition of a 50.1% stake in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the company’s long-term investment and growth strategy in Portugal.

SPdH, previously operating as Groundforce Portugal, manages more than 100,000 aircraft turns annually across five of the country’s busiest airports — Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal and Porto Santo — delivering ground handling and air cargo services to a wide range of global airline customers.

With full ownership now secured, Menzies Aviation is well positioned to accelerate the delivery of its strategic plan in Portugal, with a continued focus on operational excellence, safety and service quality. The company will maintain its investment in advanced technology and the development of its workforce of over 3,500 employees, supporting the long-term resilience and efficiency of airport operations across the country.

The acquisition reinforces Menzies’ confidence in the Portuguese aviation market and underlines its commitment to strengthening handling capacity and supporting the broader aviation ecosystem, which plays a vital role in tourism, connectivity and economic growth.

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Hassan El-Houry, Executive Chairman, Menzies Aviation, said: “This is a natural next step in our long-term strategy for Portugal. By taking full ownership of the business, we will be further strengthening our ability to invest, innovate and deliver consistently high standards of service in a market that is strategically important to us. We remain fully committed to supporting the sustainable development of the aviation sector in Portugal.”

Philipp Joeinig, Group CEO, Menzies Aviation, added: “This transaction allows us to move forward with greater agility in executing our strategy and reinforces our position as a trusted partner for airlines and airports in Portugal. Our focus remains on delivering safe, secure and high-quality services, while creating long-term value for our customers and our people.”

Menzies Aviation operates at 347 locations in over 65 countries, continuing to expand its global footprint while reinforcing its role as a leading aviation services provider worldwide.