Latest news with #EtihadCargo
Zawya
07-08-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Cargo celebrates two-year milestone with Ezhou Huahu Airport
EHU has enabled the movement of over 43,000 tonnes of exports and growing weekly services The partnership supports high-tech and e-commerce trade between China and the Middle East Abu Dhabi – Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is celebrating two successful years of operations at Ezhou Huahu Airport, marking a significant milestone in its strategic collaboration with SF Airlines. Since transitioning joint operations from Wuhan to Ezhou in August 2023, Etihad Airways is the first international airline to launch scheduled commercial freighter services in the region. Building on this milestone, Etihad Cargo expanded its presence at Ezhou Huahu Airport and announced a second weekly frequency in November 2023, followed by a third in July 2024, reflecting growing demand and operational momentum. Since August 2023, Etihad Cargo has operated two commercial freighter flights per week, one with Etihad Airways and the other with SF Airlines. From October 2023, the frequency increased to four flights per week, with two operated by Etihad Airways and the other two by SF Airlines. By July 2024, commercial freighter services had expanded further to five flights per week, with two operated by Etihad Airways and three by SF Airlines. Over the past two years, Etihad Cargo has operated 184 Boeing 777 freighter flights through Ezhou Huahu Airport in close cooperation with SF Airlines' over 200 flights with Boeing 747 freighters. The addition of a sixth weekly scheduled flight in July 2024, followed by a seventh in 2025, has further strengthened Etihad Cargo's network, improving connectivity and providing customers with faster and more efficient access to key global markets. In addition to scheduled services, charter freighter operations have also grown steadily. Etihad Cargo operated one charter freighter flight per week throughout 2024. From January to June 2025, the number of charter flights increased to three per week, supporting flexible and on-demand logistics solutions. Ezhou Huahu Airport began operations in 2022. The airport is Asia's first dedicated freighter hub and has been instrumental in enabling Etihad Cargo to deliver consistent and reliable service. Since 2023, more than 43,000 tonnes of export cargo and over 690 tonnes of import cargo have moved through Abu Dhabi via Ezhou Huahu Airport, reinforcing the hub's critical role in global logistics. Located in Hubei Province, the airport offers unrivalled domestic reach and growing international connectivity with 135 aircraft stands, dual 3,600-metre runways. 'This milestone reflects the operational success and strategic value of our collaboration with Ezhou Huahu Airport and SF Airlines,' said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways. 'Ezhou's role as Asia's first dedicated freighter hub has allowed us to unlock new levels of efficiency and reach, particularly for time-sensitive e-commerce and high-tech shipments, supporting growing demand for cross-border e-commerce and high-tech shipments between China and the Middle East. The expansion to seven weekly freighter services strengthens our ability to offer reliable, time-sensitive logistics solutions across key global trade lanes.' Luo Guowei, Chairman of Hubei International Logistics Airport Co., Ltd., stated: "As the first international airlines to operate at Ezhou Airport, Etihad Airways has transported over 28,000 tons of cargo since launching the Abu Dhabi - Ezhou route. This has established an efficient two-way trade corridor spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, injecting strong momentum into regional economic and trade exchanges. At this new starting point, Ezhou Airport will deepen strategic collaboration with Etihad Airways and SF Airlines. We will further increase route frequency, enhance cooperation on overseas warehouses, and jointly build efficient logistics channels connecting the world to China. This will forge new milestones in establishing an aviation trade hub for the Belt and Road Initiative." As Etihad Cargo continues to expand its global footprint, the relationship with Ezhou Huahu Airport remains a cornerstone of its Asia strategy, driving innovation, efficiency and mutual growth. The hub's advanced infrastructure, streamlined customs processes and proximity to key manufacturing centres have enabled Etihad Cargo to meet the rising demand for high-tech, automotive and e-commerce shipments. Looking ahead, Etihad Cargo will continue its presence at EHU, exploring opportunities for service enhancements and digital integration to further optimise end-to-end supply chain performance. About Etihad Cargo: Etihad Cargo is the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Since its establishment in 2004, Etihad Cargo has grown rapidly to become one of the world's leading air cargo carriers, offering customers a range of cargo products and services to five major continents. Its hub in Abu Dhabi is strategically located at the centre of the world's busiest trade lanes, providing an integral link between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa. In addition to general cargo, Etihad Cargo offers a wide range of specialty products including live animals, dangerous goods, valuables and vulnerables, personal effects, as well as its market leading cold chain products (the latter holding IATA's stringent Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications for both Pharmaceutical and Perishables Logistics, as well as Live Animals Logistics). Media Contacts: Duty Media Officer, Etihad Airways Email: dutymediaofficer@ Omnia Ebrahim, IHC E-mail: Omnia@ About Ezhou Huahu Airport Zelda Zou WEBeijingEtihad@
Gulf Today
07-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Etihad Cargo, Ezhou Huahu Airport sign deal
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Ezhou Huahu Airport during Air Cargo Europe 2025, reinforcing the carrier's commitment to expanding access across Asia-Pacific and unlocking greater trade potential between China and global markets. The agreement was signed by Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways, Luo Guowei, Party Committee Member and Deputy General Manager of Hubei Airport Group Company and Chairman of Hubei International Logistics Airport Company, and Li Wei, Deputy General Manager of Hubei International Logistics Airport Company. The signing took place at the Etihad Cargo stand and marks the start of a long-term collaboration between the two organisations. As part of the agreement, Etihad Cargo will strengthen its strategic presence at Ezhou Huahu Airport, which will serve as a key gateway within its broader China network. This complements the carrier's ongoing operations in Shanghai (PVG) and Shenzhen (SZX), ensuring nationwide access and greater flexibility for customers. 'Ezhou Huahu Airport is already recognised across China for its outstanding capabilities and world-class logistics infrastructure,' said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways. 'This partnership will amplify Ezhou Huahu Airport's strengths across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It represents an exciting opportunity to accelerate the development of more connected, efficient logistics solutions and those not yet engaging with this corridor risk being left behind.' The partnership will focus on increasing flight frequencies, opening new routes and building joint solutions for cross-border e-commerce, cold chain logistics and high-value manufacturing. The integration of Ezhou's hub warehouse with Etihad Cargo's global network will create a seamless two-way trade channel, strengthening market access for Chinese exports while enhancing inbound logistics flows.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Etihad Airways hires 747 operator Western Global to expand cargo service
Etihad Airways has enlisted U.S.-based Western Global Airlines, still struggling to recover after exiting bankruptcy 18 months ago, to support expanded freighter service to China and London by operating a Boeing 747-400 on its behalf, FreightWaves has learned. The airline's cargo division in April announced it was adding three weekly all-cargo flights to Shenzhen, China, and two weekly flights to London Stansted Airport via its Abu Dhabi hub to meet growing demand on key trade lanes. Etihad Cargo, which operates five Boeing 777 freighters and manages belly cargo carried by passenger aircraft, said it was supplementing its capacity with a wet-leased 747 cargo jet from an unnamed provider to carry e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables and other goods between Asia, Europe and the Middle East. After several weeks of delay, Etihad appears ready to commence the new freighter service. Etihad Cargo officials declined to identify the airline providing the outsourced transportation service, but an email response from a media representative inadvertently included program details from someone else in the company who was copied on a reporter's to the message, Etihad has signed a contract with Western Global. FreightWaves has known about the arrangement for a month but waited to publish a story until there were signs that service had materialized. As of early June, the new freighter services had yet to commence, flight tracking data shows. But a Boeing 747-400 operated by Western Global landed on Tuesday at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, according to Flightradar24. An industry source, who asked not to be identified to protect ongoing business relationships, confirmed the presence of the Western Global freighter in Shenzhen. The Western Global capacity will give Etihad Cargo 17 weekly freighter rotations per week, up from the current 14, to China, with one more flight expected to be added later this year, according to company officials. Etihad finished last year with 11 direct flights to China. The goal for 18 freighter flights per week is down from the 23 planned flights Etihad promised in January. Privately held Western Global early this decade had a fleet of 21 freighter aircraft. It reorganized under bankruptcy protection in 2023 because of falling revenues as freight markets normalized from pandemic highs, a high debt load and rising maintenance costs for its aging fleet. The company now operates seven freighters. Only four of its 17 MD-11 cargo jets are currently in service, according to aircraft Global Airlines lost $33 million last year, an improvement from 2023's $62 million loss, according to U.S. Department of Transportation data. Operating revenue improved 1.9% last year to $213 million but was outpaced by $240 million in operating costs. Revenue per ton mile improved nearly 15% to 89 cents. Earlier this week, Etihad and China's SF Airlines agreed to expand their August 2023 capacity-sharing agreement under which they conduct freighter flights to their respective home bases in Abu Dhabi and Ezhou to increase connectivity for each other's customers. Last year, the two companies increased freighter frequency on that route and launched a new service between Shenzhen and Abu Dhabi. Etihad helps SF Airlines, the private airline of SF Express, reach Europe by transferring parcels in Abu Dhabi to passenger aircraft and freighters serving the continent. Etihad benefits because SF has more traffic rights out of China and Hong Kong than Etihad, while Etihad can reach more destinations in Europe, the Middle East and India than SF Airlines. The business arrangement calls for the airlines to jointly market and integrate their airfreight services with the aim of increasing cargo capacity, flexibility, tailored products, service efficiency and the range of available destinations for shippers. The partners said they will also coordinate pricing strategies and route allocation, and align service standards. The joint venture will focus on supporting the movement of high-value electronics, sensitive equipment and temperature-controlled pharmaceutical goods. 'By working closely with SF Airlines, we are expanding our service offerings, optimising operational efficiency and enhancing our competitive position in the air cargo industry,' said Etihad Airways CEO Antonoaldo Neves in a news release. Etihad Cargo this week also committed to strengthening its presence at Ezhou Huahu Airport by adding flights, opening new routes and developing joint products that support cross-border e-commerce, cold chain logistics and high-value manufacturing. Etihad Cargo currently operates four Boeing 777 freighters per week to Ezhou Huahu Airport. The airport, which opened in 2022, is Asia's first dedicated cargo airport and includes 135 aircraft stands, dual runways and the capacity to handle 1.1 million tons of cargo annually. Etihad's cargo division this week also introduced a high-tech label from Tag-N-Trac for real-time shipment tracking. Sensors can capture the exact location, temperature and humidity, shock and tilt events, and light exposure. The data is transmitted with the help of cellular, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. The smart label, which can remain active for up to 30 days, features minimal packaging and eliminates the need for return logistics, as is the case for hard devices, Etihad said. SmartTrack will be available to customers via the Etihad Cargo website and mobile app starting in October. Click here for more FreightWaves/American Shipper stories by Eric companies charter Etihad freighters to transport Chinese goods Etihad Airways to order 3 additional A350 freighters from Airbus The post Etihad Airways hires 747 operator Western Global to expand cargo service appeared first on FreightWaves. Sign in to access your portfolio
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Cargo signs strategic agreement With Ezhou Huahu Airport to strengthen access throughout asia-pacific
Partnership to establish Ezhou Huahu Airport as one of Etihad Cargo's core hubs in China The agreement will boost connectivity across China, the Middle East, Europe and Africa Parties to collaborate on expanding e-commerce and cold chain logistics capabilities Munich, Germany – Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Ezhou Huahu Airport during Air Cargo Europe 2025, reinforcing the carrier's commitment to expanding access across Asia-Pacific and unlocking greater trade potential between China and global markets. The agreement was signed by Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways, Mr Luo Guowei, Party Committee Member and Deputy General Manager of Hubei Airport Group Company and Chairman of Hubei International Logistics Airport Company, and Mr Li Wei, Deputy General Manager of Hubei International Logistics Airport Company. The signing took place at the Etihad Cargo stand and marks the start of a long-term collaboration between the two organisations. As part of the agreement, Etihad Cargo will strengthen its strategic presence at Ezhou Huahu Airport, which will serve as a key gateway within its broader China network. This complements the carrier's ongoing operations in Shanghai (PVG) and Shenzhen (SZX), ensuring nationwide access and greater flexibility for customers. 'Ezhou Huahu Airport is already recognised across China for its outstanding capabilities and world-class logistics infrastructure,' said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways. 'This partnership will amplify Ezhou Huahu Airport's strengths across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. It represents an exciting opportunity to accelerate the development of more connected, efficient logistics solutions and those not yet engaging with this corridor risk being left behind.' The partnership will focus on increasing flight frequencies, opening new routes and building joint solutions for cross-border e-commerce, cold chain logistics and high-value manufacturing. The integration of Ezhou's hub warehouse with Etihad Cargo's global network will create a seamless two-way trade channel, strengthening market access for Chinese exports while enhancing inbound logistics flows. Etihad Cargo currently operates four Boeing 777 freighters per week to Ezhou Huahu Airport. The airport, which opened in 2022, is Asia's first dedicated cargo airport and includes 135 aircraft stands, dual 3,600-metre runways and the capacity to handle 3.3 million tonnes of cargo annually. Located in Hubei Province, it offers unrivalled domestic reach and growing international connectivity. Mr Luo Guowei, Party Committee Member and Deputy General Manager of Hubei Airport Group Company and Chairman of the Board of Hubei International Logistics Airport Company, said: 'This partnership is an important step in the airport's global growth. Etihad Cargo's strategic network and hub in Abu Dhabi offer new pathways for China's exporters and we look forward to building stronger links across continents. We are also exploring opportunities to collaborate further with stakeholders in Abu Dhabi and identify areas for long-term, mutual benefit.' This agreement aligns with Etihad Cargo's strategic focus on building integrated regional partnerships that create tangible value across the air cargo ecosystem and support China's growing leadership in global logistics innovation. About Etihad Cargo: Etihad Cargo is the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Since its establishment in 2004, Etihad Cargo has grown rapidly to become one of the world's leading air cargo carriers, offering customers a range of cargo products and services to five major continents. Its hub in Abu Dhabi is strategically located at the centre of the world's busiest trade lanes, providing an integral link between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa. In addition to general cargo, Etihad Cargo offers a wide range of specialty products including live animals, dangerous goods, valuables and vulnerables, personal effects, as well as its market leading cold chain products (the latter holding IATA's stringent Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications for both Pharmaceutical and Perishables Logistics, as well as Live Animals Logistics). For more information, please visit Media Contacts: Duty Media Officer, Etihad Airways Email: dutymediaofficer@ Kimberley Bostock, IHC (Etihad Cargo) Email: kimberley@
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Etihad Cargo launches SmartTrack, the industry's first real-time smart shipment tracking solution
Munich, Germany: Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has launched SmartTrack, a game-changing premium service that gives customers real-time access to shipment location and condition data, raising the bar for transparency in global air freight. Unveiled at Air Cargo Europe 2025 in Munich, SmartTrack positions Etihad Cargo as the first carrier globally to implement this type of advanced smart tracking solution. Developed in partnership with Tag-N-Trac, SmartTrack leverages cutting-edge smart label technology to deliver comprehensive end-to-end shipment monitoring. The label is equipped with cellular, GPS, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, capturing real-time data on exact location, temperature and humidity, shock, tilt and light exposure. This makes SmartTrack the ideal solution for mission-critical and condition-sensitive cargo, including pharmaceuticals, electronics and high-value goods. SmartTrack is designed with a focus on both efficiency and sustainability. The smart label, which can remain active for up to 30 days, features minimal packaging and eliminates the need for return logistics. SmartTrack will be fully integrated into Etihad Cargo's digital platform and mobile app and aims to provide customers with a tailored, intuitive interface featuring live maps, milestone updates and access to full sensor data. This digital experience is supported by Etihad Cargo's centralised control tower, which delivers 24/7 operational oversight and proactive performance monitoring, ensuring transparency and service excellence at every stage of the journey. 'This launch represents a transformation in how we deliver even more peace of mind to our customers,' said Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways. 'By combining simplicity, intelligence and automation, we are reinforcing our commitment to smarter, more transparent logistics.' 'When Etihad Airways' cargo team asked us if we could deliver an air cargo visibility digital solution in three months, we were up for the challenge. We knew we were setting a new standard in cargo visibility with our smart label-based RELATIVITY platform, empowering Etihad with the information they need, when they need it, across the globe,' said Venu Gutlapalli, CEO of Tag-N-Trac. Following extensive field testing across major global trade lanes, the SmartTrack label has demonstrated consistent, high-accuracy performance across both air and ground transport. SmartTrack will be available to customers via the Etihad Cargo website and mobile app from October 2025, as part of the airline's broader digital transformation strategy focused on innovation, operational excellence and exceeding evolving customer expectations. About Etihad Cargo: Etihad Cargo is the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways. Since its establishment in 2004, Etihad Cargo has grown rapidly to become one of the leading air cargo carriers in the world, offering customers a range of cargo products and services to five major continents. Its hub in Abu Dhabi is strategically located at the centre of the world's busiest trade lanes, providing an integral link between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and Africa. In addition to general cargo, Etihad Cargo offers a wide range of specialty products, including live animals, dangerous goods, valuables and vulnerables, personal effects, and its market-leading cold chain products (the latter holding IATA's stringent Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators certifications for both Pharmaceutical and Perishables Logistics and Live Animal Logistics). For more information, please visit About Tag N Trac Tag N Trac is a global leader in tracking and logistics solutions head quartered in San Diego CA, leveraging advanced technology to deliver real-time visibility and actionable insights for enterprise customers. With a commitment to innovation and customer success, Tag N Trac is transforming how businesses manage supply chains. For more information, visit Tag N Trac. Media Contacts: Duty Media Officer, Etihad Airways Email: dutymediaofficer@ Kimberley Bostock, IHC (Etihad Cargo) Email: kimberley@
