Etihad Cargo, the dedicated cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, celebrates two decades of operations in India, a significant milestone that underscores its steadfast commitment to the Indian market. The journey began with the airline’s inaugural flight to Mumbai on September 26, 2004. Since then, Etihad Cargo has continually expanded its presence in the region, now providing belly hold capacity through nonstop services connecting Abu Dhabi to 12 major Indian cities, with ambitious plans for further growth.
Handling over 46,000 tonnes of cargo annually from India, Etihad Cargo connects the nation to more than 100 global destinations via its Abu Dhabi hub, with a robust schedule of 588 widebody and narrowbody rotations each month. This extensive network highlights the airline’s integral role in facilitating trade and commerce between India and the world.
To cater to the diverse needs of various sectors, Etihad Cargo has enhanced its product offerings, adding new features and launching innovative solutions. Key commodities transported include electronics—such as mobile phones and semiconductors—garments, pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce goods, automobile components, and courier shipments. This range reflects the vibrancy and strength of India’s manufacturing and export sectors.
One standout product is the PharmaLife service, certified by IATA CEIV Pharma, which provides precise temperature control for the secure transport of high-value pharmaceuticals—a sector witnessing significant growth in India. The airline is actively exploring additional certified pharma trade lanes in collaboration with key partners and has implemented stringent cargo screening measures for U.S.-bound shipments from major Indian hubs like Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
Etihad Cargo’s recent pharma roadshows in India, launched in 2023, have effectively doubled PharmaLife volumes by enhancing connectivity and frequency. Furthermore, the introduction of the IATA CEIV Li-batt-certified SecureTech product in 2024 has bolstered electronics shipments, showcasing the carrier’s adaptability to market demands.
Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo, stated, “As Etihad Cargo celebrates two decades of successful operations in India, the carrier’s commitment to its customers remains strong.” He emphasised the ongoing investments in network, product range, infrastructure, and digitalisation to deliver efficient and reliable air cargo solutions that meet the evolving needs of customers in India and beyond.
Looking ahead, Etihad Cargo is poised for continued innovation and expansion. The airline has invested in advanced technology, enhancing its operations through customer relationship and cargo management systems, as well as improved online booking capabilities. Currently, an impressive 93% of bookings from India are made directly through Etihad Cargo’s booking portal.
With a firm focus on delivering efficient and reliable cargo solutions, Etihad Cargo is dedicated to meeting the dynamic needs of the Indian market and solidifying its position as the air cargo partner of choice.
