Modern cargo networks now demand agility that extends beyond aircraft schedules to include partnerships, digital oversight, and specialised logistics for high-value and temperature-sensitive goods. The modern cargo hub must anticipate new verticals—from pharmaceuticals and perishables to high-value electronics and live animals—while maintaining strict compliance and operational safety.
This requires investment in technology, temperature-controlled facilities, AI-driven tracking solutions, and environmentally sustainable operations. In short, hubs are evolving into finely tuned ecosystems that link fleet strategy, digital innovation, and trade facilitation.
“Capacity needs to be balanced between east and west. That’s the key to keeping our network fluid,” Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Cargo, said. “It’s not just about adding aircraft. It’s about making sure every plane we deploy generates value.
“Our cargo division is fully coordinated with the passenger division. When we add A321LRs to the network, it doesn’t automatically create capacity. We need to synchronise flights to ensure cargo flows efficiently between Abu Dhabi and Europe, or from Asia to Abu Dhabi.”
Partnerships driving access
Strategic partnerships are central to Etihad Cargo’s global approach. The joint business agreement with SF Airlines, for instance, expands capacity between China and Abu Dhabi. “This will generate additional frequency and capacity to provide solutions to our customers,” Stanislas noted.
Interline partnerships also play a key role, accounting for roughly 12 percent of revenue. “We work with partners to develop trade lanes in regions where cargo volume is present but fragmented,” he said.
Regional trade development is equally important. Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a pharmaceutical hub for Africa, the Middle East, and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Stanislas highlighted collaboration with the Department of Health: “I visited the storage area myself—it’s an amazing facility in terms of construction and safety.”
For perishables, the hub supports both local consumption and export. “We are shipping products like tomatoes and blueberries from UAE farms to Europe in winter, reducing transport distances and ensuring freshness,” Stanislas explained.
Customer-centric
Organisational restructuring has strengthened customer focus and responsiveness. Stanislas describes a clear separation between strategy and execution, supported by quarterly project reviews and enhanced oversight of subcontractors and handling agents. “Each department understands its role. We are working towards the customer in every function, from operations to commercial,” he says.
Investment in staff training, digital platforms, and AI-driven tools ensures that the network remains competitive while delivering high service standards. “AI allows us to provide timely information, suggest solutions, and free staff from administrative tasks so they can focus on customer needs,” Stanislas notes, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to integrated, technology-enabled logistics solutions.
Technology and safety
Innovation in tracking and digital management is central to these operations. Etihad Cargo has introduced Smart Track, a device enabling real-time monitoring of sensitive shipments. “We start opening the first sale out of certain stations to the world in September. We are implementing this step by step to ensure service quality,” says Stanislas.
Safety, particularly for hazardous cargo like lithium batteries, is another focus. Stanislas emphasises a proactive approach: “We implement additional measures where risk is higher, working closely with freight forwarders and assessing threats daily.” Enhanced warehouse facilities in Abu Dhabi will complement these efforts, offering 90,000 sq m of temperature-controlled space for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and other sensitive goods.
Sustainability is integrated across fleet, ground operations, and partnerships. Stanislas notes that the introduction of A350 freighters and newer Boeing 777 aircraft reduces the environmental footprint. “We are also working with partners to provide green handling solutions and exploring electrical developments around the airport,” he says, while acknowledging that progress is gradual but essential.
