Etihad Cargo Marks Significant Growth in Temperature-Sensitive Logistics Sector

In 2023, Etihad Cargo, the cargo division of Etihad Airways, marked a significant milestone in its operations, particularly in the handling of temperature-sensitive shipments. The company reported a 37% increase in its PharmaLife shipments, designed for pharmaceuticals, and a 10% rise in FreshForward shipments, catering to fresh and perishable goods. These figures not only underscore Etihad Cargo's proficiency in managing delicate cargo but also reinforce its standing within the air cargo sector.

Etihad Cargo has strategically expanded its cool chain product offerings, including PharmaLife and FreshForward, both of which have garnered the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) certification in Pharmaceutical and Fresh logistics. Achieving a 99.1% compliance rate for pharmaceutical shipments, the company has witnessed steady growth in cool chain volumes over the past three years.

To support the increasing demand for cool chain logistics, Etihad Cargo inaugurated a dedicated pharma hub in 2023, effectively doubling its capacity for storage and handling. This expansion led to a notable surge in pharmaceutical volumes, with increases of 39%, 40%, and 41% recorded in July, August, and September respectively. Additionally, the refurbishment of their perishables handling facility has streamlined the transfer process for perishable goods.

Global Network Expansion

Etihad Cargo's commitment to quality and continuous improvement has been pivotal to its growth. The company has developed over 1,330 IATA CEIV Pharma/GDP-certified trade lanes to maintain product integrity throughout the journey. Collaborations with airline partners aim to establish more certified pharma trade lanes. The launch of Pharma Corridor 2.0 between Abu Dhabi and Brussels resulted in a 10.3% increase in transported volumes, enhancing transparency and traceability in the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Similarly, the introduction of Fresh Corridor 2.0 between Abu Dhabi and the Netherlands led to a 42% rise in fresh volumes transported. With an expanded global network covering over 70 destinations and increased freighter and passenger routes, Etihad Cargo is well-positioned to meet growing capacity demands.

Focus on Key Markets

India, a crucial market for pharmaceutical production, has seen significant benefits from Etihad Cargo's expanded operations and increased frequencies. The carrier's Pharma Champions program offers local expertise and improved connectivity to India's principal markets. Remarkably, Etihad Cargo doubled its PharmaLife volumes ex India in less than a year.

The implementation of enhanced cargo screening requirements for US-bound shipments from selected stations has offered partners and customers advantages such as shorter transit times, reduced handling, and quicker ramp transfers.

Evidently, Etihad Cargo's achievements throughout 2023 highlight its dedication to excellence in temperature-controlled logistics. By supporting emerging and expanding markets in the pharmaceutical and perishables sectors, Etihad Cargo continues to play a crucial role in global supply chains.

With inputs from WAM