Etihad Cargo deploys cargo-only Boeing 787s to complement freighter fleet to ensure continuity of UAE and global key trade lanes

The carrier has announced it will tweak its freighter network to adjust to passenger suspensions and launched passenger freighter network to ensure continuity.

Following the directive issued by the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority, and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates to temporarily suspend all passenger services to and from the UAE, Etihad Cargo said it will continue its efforts to connect cargo markets and helps to ensure the UAE’s import and export needs are adequately covered in line with current demand.

To complement its fleet of Boeing 777 freighters, Etihad Cargo is introducing a fleet of Boeing 787-10 aircrafts as passenger freighters and wants to operate 34 weekly flights, serving 10 markets initially. Each aircraft is intended to provide capacity for 12 lower deck pallets and four containers, carrying up to 45 tons of payload.

The passenger freighter network aims to introduce capacity, subject to permits, into India, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea and other places where borders remain open for cargo. The freighter schedule also plans to enhance capacities through additional flights into Riyadh, London, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

By utilising the Boeing 787 in addition to its freighter fleet, Etihad Cargo wants to facilitate the continuity of essential imports into the UAE including fruits, vegetables, meat, medical supplies, mail and ecommerce.

Abdulla Mohamed Shadid, Managing Director Cargo and Logistics at Etihad Aviation Group, said “In the current environment and as per our leadership’s guidance, it is essential these trade lanes remain open, and with the addition on this capacity we are able to serve those constrained markets that face decreased passenger freight operations, offering a strategic cargo lifeline and supporting the continuity of the global trade ecosystem.” 

Source: Etihad Cargo