The largest commercial kitchen in the southern hemisphere has opened in Melbourne Airport’s business precinct built for aviation catering company Alpha Flight Services.
In-flight meals will be cooked in the 11,000sqm purpose-built facility, which contains two commercial kitchens, four custom made blast chillers, a dedicated presentation kitchen, bakery, 100-seat cafeteria and waste treatment plant.
Melbourne Airport Chief of Property Linc Horton said the catering facility is a wonderful asset for the airport.
“We’re pleased to have Alpha Flight Services operate on Melbourne Airport’s doorstep. It’s not only a great fit for the company and our airline customers but also the community surrounding the precinct,” said Mr. Horton.
“The airport is already one of Victoria’s largest employers with more than 16,000 people working in aviation or a career that supports the airport’s wider operation, and by adding Alpha Flight Services’ kitchen we’re enhancing the existing job opportunities with exciting careers in hospitality.”
“Currently the catering company creates meals for 4,000 flights a month, and thanks to the new commercial kitchen more than 750,000 meals could be dished up per month.”
Mr. Horton said the airport’s ability to operate 24/7 curfew free is a big factor in attracting businesses to the area.
“Melbourne Airport is a bustling transport hub set to service 64 million travelers by 2033 and industries such as tourism, health care, leisure and recreation are noticing the potential in our growth, location and flexibility,” said Mr. Horton.
“We are delighted to assist Alpha Flight Services in creating their dream kitchen and wish them much success in their new home.”
Alpha Flight Services is a member of dnata, one of the world’s largest air services providers offering ground handling, cargo, travel and flight catering services in 84 countries across six continents.
dnata President Gary Chapman said:
“As inbound and outbound travel in Australia continues to see healthy growth for both the business and leisure sectors, we are seeing exciting new opportunities to serve our airline customers. This investment in the new Melbourne facility reflects our confidence in the market as well as our continuous commitment to deliver the highest standards in in-flight meals to our airline customers and their passengers.”