Etihad Cargo, the logistics division of Etihad Airways, has operated 329 scheduled and charter flights from Ezhou Huahu Airport to Zayed International Airport, further establishing its reputation as a trusted partner for industries such as pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and perishables
Since its inaugural flight to Ezhou Huahu Airport on August 18, 2023, making it the first international airline to do so, Etihad Cargo has reinforced its commitment to enhancing connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Ezhou Huahu Airport, Asia’s first dedicated freighter hub, has served as a strategic base for Etihad Cargo, enabling the transport of over 18,700 tonnes of export cargo and more than 400 tonnes of imports through Abu Dhabi since 2023. The addition of a sixth weekly scheduled flight in July 2024, followed by a seventh in 2025, has enhanced the carrier’s network, ensuring efficient connections to key global markets. The recent IATA CEIV Pharma certification for the airport’s ground handling services further strengthens its ability to support specialized cargo, especially within the pharmaceutical sector.
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: “As the first international carrier to operate from Ezhou, Etihad Cargo is proud to have played a pivotal role in demonstrating the airport’s superior capabilities and strategic importance within just one year of operations. Etihad Cargo’s customers have expressed high satisfaction with the reliability and efficiency of the service, validating the carrier’s decision to partner with Ezhou and recognizing its potential as a global cargo hub. Ezhou Huahu Airport’s advanced infrastructure has impressed exporters and local customers alike, especially in facilitating seamless imports, while Etihad Cargo’s efforts to showcase Ezhou’s connectivity and capabilities to exporters in Europe and beyond are paving the way for even greater opportunities.”
Ezhou Huahu Airport, with its advanced facilities and strategic location, has emerged as a key logistics hub, enabling the seamless movement of goods across Asia and beyond. Its extensive network of 36 international cargo routes, combined with Etihad Cargo’s global connectivity through Abu Dhabi, has created significant value for customers seeking efficient and reliable cargo solutions. The collaborative efforts of partners, stakeholders, and local authorities have been essential in driving the success of Etihad Cargo’s operations in the region.
Also Read: DB Schenker Launches Ezhou-Frankfurt Air Cargo Route.
Li Wei, Deputy General Manager of Ezhou Huahu International Airport, said: “Ezhou Huahu International Airport is located in central China, boasting a strategic geographical advantage and solid foundational conditions. A domestic hub-and-spoke route network is already established, while international logistics channels are rapidly taking shape. Port functionalities are continuously improving, and operational capabilities are steadily advancing. In 2024, the airport’s cargo and mail throughput are projected to rank fifth nationwide, with 36 international cargo routes already operational. Ezhou Huahu International Airport regards Etihad Cargo as a key strategic partner and supports the launch of more cargo routes at the airport, achieving even greater milestones in the future.”
Etihad Cargo’s operations in Ezhou are a key component of the carrier’s extensive network in Greater China, which will grow to 23 weekly freighters and 25 weekly passenger flights in 2025.
Qatar Airways Cargo and Unilode Aviation Solutions, the industry leader in outsourced ULD management, repair, and digital services, have teamed up to digitalize the airline’s fleet of more than 42,000 ULDs.
This partnership marks the biggest ULD digitalization initiative ever carried out by an airline. Qatar Airways Cargo will utilize Unilode’s cutting-edge ULD digitalization technology to access valuable data-driven insights and real-time tracking of ULD locations, sensor data, and asset usage. With Unilode’s digital solutions, Qatar Airways Cargo aims to enhance its operations, optimize resources, create new revenue opportunities, and improve overall performance, solidifying its leadership in the industry.
The partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo will make sure Unilode’s tag and reader network is further extended to cover the carriage of ULDs on the airline’s global passenger and cargo network. The tag and reader network will be supported by E-ULD, Unilode’s in-house developed mobile app and web portal that enables real-time visibility, and tracking, of ULDs. Unilode’s Enterprise Data Warehouse and customer portal, which provide the airline with enhanced data analytics to improve ULD utilization and further reduce costs.
Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer Cargo, Mark Drusch said, “We are excited to join forces with Unilode to embark on this groundbreaking transformative digital journey. Our shared vision for ULD digitalization and innovation will undoubtedly set new benchmarks in the air cargo industry for operational excellence, enabling us to elevate our customer experience and further optimise our resources. By implementing Unilode’s innovative digital solutions, we are able to allocate ULDs more effectively across our vast network of destinations and this, in turn, will increase asset utilization, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly operation.”
Also Read: DB Schenker Launches Ford’s Advanced Parts Distribution Center in Dubai South.
Unilode’s, Chief Executive Officer, Ross Marino said, “Our collaboration with Qatar Airways Cargo represents a major digital milestone in the industry. This reinforces our commitment to our digital journey and providing our customers with technology-based solutions for their fleet or as part of our full-service ULD management solutions.
With this partnership, we are confident it will reshape ULD digitalization across the industry and contribute to a more connected, efficient, and sustainable aviation ecosystem. With Qatar Airways Cargo as our partner, we look forward to working together on developing and enhancing our digital solutions further.”
Royal Air Maroc Cargo, Morocco’s national airline, has reinforced its 15-year partnership with CHAMP Cargosystems by integrating Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot Handling.
With these new additions, Royal Air Maroc Cargo continues to strategically expand its CHAMP portfolio, effectively addressing critical challenges in the air cargo industry with solutions like Cargospot Airlines, Cargospot Handling, Traxon Global Security, and Traxon Global Commerce.
Implemented earlier in the year, Cargospot Mobile elevates RAM’s hub operations in Casablanca by putting Cargospot Handling in the hands of employees through mobile devices directly on the warehouse floor. This will equip Royal Air Maroc Cargo with live shipment status updates, data insights and safety mechanisms for the handling of dangerous goods, unlocking profound efficiency gains through enhanced connectivity and streamlined operations.
July marked another milestone with Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s successful deployment of Cargospot API giving the airline access to CHAMP’s industry-leading suite of APIs which include services for booking and pricing to be used in tandem with CHAMP’s Cargospot solution. Royal Air Maroc Cargo was particularly enthusiastic to connect with API marketplace, cargo.one, to deliver a world-class digital booking experience and visibility across global customer markets.
Both implementations were executed successfully with impressive speed and were made possible through shared values of collaboration, innovation, and interconnectivity.
Ali Ghaffar, Head of Sales – EMEA at CHAMP, said “We are delighted to equip Royal Air Maroc with Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs and facilitate their continued success. The addition of new Cargospot products combined with their existing suite of CHAMP solutions positions them for excellent growth and opportunities ahead.”
Also Read: CargoAi Partners with KUB Air for Seamless eBooking.
Yassine Berrada, VP Cargo at Royal Air Maroc said “The implementation of Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs have been an exciting development that enables us to automate repetitive tasks through digitalized operations. We look forward to increasing our efficiency, productivity, and interconnectivity with the latest technology and innovative software solutions from CHAMP.”
DB Schenker, a global leader in logistics and supply chain management, has joined forces with Ford to inaugurate a cutting-edge Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Dubai South, the largest urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics, and real estate. The grand opening ceremony, held on January 9, 2025, marks a significant milestone in enhancing the efficiency and scalability of automotive supply chains in the region. Designed to set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and technological innovation, the 42,000-square-meter facility represents a monumental step in reshaping the region’s logistics landscape.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, Ako Djaf, VP of Contract Logistics and SCM of DB Schenker in the Middle East and Africa, Kay Hart, President, International Markets Group, Ford Motor Company, Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East as well as other senior officials.
Placing DB Schenker’s expertise at the heart of its operations, the new PDC leverages advanced Material Handling Equipment (MHE) and a sophisticated racking system tailored to maximize storage capacity and picking efficiency. These include Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) systems, Multi-Tier Mezzanines (MTM), Deep Selective Racking (DSR), and Cantilever Racking (CR), which streamline order processing and ensure seamless operations. Complementing this, the facility features 20 container docks – 10 for inbound and 10 for outbound operations – enabling simultaneous activities to accelerate delivery times.
Ako Djaf, VP of Contract Logistics and SCM of DB Schenker in the Middle East and Africa, said, “At DB Schenker, we take immense pride in supporting Ford’s ambitious vision for operational excellence in the Middle East. The new Parts Distribution Center is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation, designed to streamline supply chain processes, enhance customer satisfaction, and contribute to sustainability goals. By leveraging our global expertise and advanced logistics solutions, we are excited to play a pivotal role in Ford’s journey to deliver unparalleled service to its customers across the region.”
“We are pleased to welcome Ford to Dubai South with the launch of its new facility. With the expertise and capabilities of DB Schenker, we are confident that this collaboration will bolster Ford’s expansion endeavors while delivering premium services to its customers across the region. At Dubai South, our mission is to support the government’s economic diversification plans through the comprehensive services and solutions we offer to both local and international companies, underpinned by our state-of-the-art infrastructure. We remain steadfast in our commitment to positioning Dubai as one of the world’s leading logistics hubs,” said Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District, Dubai South.
The PDC’s operations are anchored by DB Schenker’s expertise in implementing SAP S/4HANA warehouse management software, which facilitates paperless picking with barcode scanning for unmatched precision and speed. A dedicated Vehicle Off Road (VOR) processing team further ensures critical parts are prioritized, eliminating delays and boosting customer satisfaction.
“The new PDC will enable us to create a more streamlined and efficient process that enhances parts availability, optimizes inventory management, and elevates customer service,” said Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East. “By unlocking these operational efficiencies, we are delivering on our commitment to improve service and delivery times in the region, and we are thrilled to see this latest Ford project in Dubai come to fruition.”
Located strategically in Dubai South, the PDC consolidates Ford’s storage and distribution into a single, technologically advanced hub that serves key markets across the GCC and Sub-Saharan Africa. The facility increases capacity by 20 percent compared to its predecessor, significantly improving inventory management and operational efficiency.
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DB Schenker’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the facility’s design, which incorporates eco-conscious practices. A 400kW solar panel system, set to be installed in late 2025, will reduce energy consumption by 35 percent and lower the carbon footprint by 290 tons annually. Responsible waste management, including recycling and eco-friendly disposal, further reinforces the facility’s environmentally sustainable operations.
This advanced distribution center demonstrates DB Schenker’s dedication to redefining logistics innovation. By utilizing the latest technologies and sustainable practices, DB Schenker continues to set industry standards while empowering global brands like Ford to excel in the region.
Representing the pinnacle of logistical innovation encapsulated within a premier infrastructure network, Dubai South’s Logistics District offers premier services and operations as well as uninterrupted access to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded logistics corridor. The district comprises multiple zones, which have direct access to the cargo terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport; EZDubai, a fully dedicated e-commerce free zone; and a Contract Logistics Zone.
Mawani (The General Authority of Ports) has announced the launch of the “MRX” shipping service by Milaha at Jeddah Islamic Port. This addition strengthens maritime connectivity between Saudi Arabia and key international ports, including those in India, the UAE, Egypt, and Jordan.
This initiative aligns with Mawani’s strategy to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position on the maritime navigation network connectivity index, improve port efficiency, and bolster the Kingdom’s links to global markets. These efforts are part of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, which aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub connecting three continents.
The MRX service connects Jeddah Islamic Port with Mundra Port in India, Aqaba in Jordan, Ain Sokhna in Egypt, and Jebel Ali in the UAE. It offers a capacity of 2,500 standard containers per shipment.
Mawani’s collaborations with leading international shipping lines continue to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports, develop infrastructure, expand maritime transport routes, and streamline operational and logistical services.
Pharma Logistics Winter University (PLWU) will be held from 3-7 February 2025, supported by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and hosted by Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi. This transformative initiative aims to cultivate future global leaders in pharmaceutical logistics through a comprehensive and immersive five-day programme tailored for regional and international students, management trainees and junior professionals.
This pioneering programme is co-founded by Etihad Cargo, Pharma.Aero, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the University of Antwerp, and Khalifa University. Together, these partners bring unmatched expertise to create a platform that bridges academic learning with industry application. Abu Dhabi’s central location ensures access to global and regional markets, fostering an environment where innovation and talent flourish.
Abu Dhabi is emerging as a global hub for life sciences and healthcare, driven by its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and visionary investments. The Pharma Logistics Winter University builds on the success of the 2022 edition of the Pharma Logistics Masterclass, also held in Abu Dhabi. While the Masterclass focuses on specialized industry-level knowledge and senior professionals, the PLWU will be an annual initiative hosted exclusively in Abu Dhabi, offering a dedicated platform for developing young talent, students and management trainees within pharmaceutical logistics. This new programme complements the Pharma Logistics Masterclass by providing a more structured, immersive educational experience that addresses the emirate’s broader vision of creating a thriving healthcare and life sciences ecosystem. By integrating academic and practical training, talent retention and innovation, the Pharma Logistics Winter University complements the emirate’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in the sector.
Designed to bridge academic learning with industry application, the Winter University delivers both industry-relevant insights and a high level of expertise. Students and professionals will evaluate cutting-edge technological advancements shaping pharma logistics. During the five-day immersive programme, participants will learn to identify and address the challenges of managing pharmaceutical products, optimize logistics networks for timely and safe deliveries, and develop risk mitigation strategies. They will explore the crucial role of cold chain management, assess best practices, and analyze successful and unsuccessful case studies to extract key lessons. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to evaluate the latest innovations and technological advancements shaping the future of pharma logistics.
The Winter University offers participants:
Frank Van Gelder, Secretary General at Pharma.Aero, said: “Pharma.Aero, as a permanent business partner together with the University of Antwerp, welcomes Khalifa University, Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, to announce its strong support for the inaugural PLWU, set to launch in early February 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
“This international initiative unites academic students, post-graduates and young professionals in a unique program designed to identify emerging talent and foster long-term job retention across the pharma logistics industry. By emphasizing cross-sector collaboration and internal multidisciplinary synergy — the very essence of Pharma.Aero’s mission — this programme sets a new standard for professional development in the field. Through strategic support of our members such as Etihad Cargo and by advocating for the evolving needs of the industry, Pharma.Aero reaffirms its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and talent development on a global scale,” Van Gelder added.
H.E. Dr. Rashed Alsuwaidi, the Acting Director General of Healthcare Regulatory at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), said: “The inaugural of Winter University reinforces Abu Dhabi’s dedication to driving innovation and nurturing future leaders in unique fields, specifically pharmaceutical logistics. As the healthcare sector regulator, we proudly support initiatives that strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences. This programme aligns with our vision of fostering a resilient and forward-thinking health ecosystem by equipping professionals with the tools to drive meaningful change and addressing critical challenges like cold chain logistics.”
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: “Etihad Cargo is proud to co-found this transformative programme, which reflects the carrier’s dedication to fostering innovation and talent in pharmaceutical logistics. Through collaboration with industry-leading partners, Etihad Cargo aims to support Abu Dhabi’s development as a global hub for healthcare and life sciences and ensure the right talent is in place for the future.”
Professor Dr Roel Gevaers, Professor at the University of Antwerp and Chair of the Pharma Logistics Winter University, said: “After the very successful Pharma Logistics Masterclass in Abu Dhabi in 2022, I am very proud that we will organize the first-ever Pharma Logistics Winter University in Abu Dhabi in February 2025. This winter University is a formal course worth three lecture credits and is addressed to Master’s and Bachelor’s students and Management Trainees. This course again underlines the strong relationship between Belgium and Abu Dhabi and their value as powerhouses of pharma knowledge worldwide. We are also very proud as University of Antwerp that this course is not a one-time event: It will be organized yearly in Abu Dhabi.”
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Professor Ernesto Damiani, Dean, College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and Director, Center for Cyber-Physical Systems (C2PS), Khalifa University, said: “As a leading research-intensive higher education institution focused on innovation and entrepreneurship, Khalifa University is pleased to collaborate with partners in Europe and in the UAE to host the immersive 5-day Winter University. The initiative is in line with the UAE’s vision to create a life sciences and healthcare ecosystem and Khalifa University’s mandate to develop human capital that will be crucial to the country and the region in this field. We believe the expertise and the synergy resulting from this industry-academia collaboration will benefit the larger global community in general.”
The participants will earn 3 European Credit Transfers (ECTs) and a micro-credential certificate upon successfully completing the programme, reinforcing their academic and professional credentials. The programme is open to master’s students, junior professionals, and management trainees from diverse fields such as supply chain, transportation, and pharmacy.
UAECAGP – UAE Cargo Airline & GSA Professional Community has officially been recognized as a Community Legal Register under UAE law, marking a significant milestone in its mission to unify and uplift the cargo airline and General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA) industry.
Operating under the legal entity NETWORK COMMUNITY FZLLC, this achievement underscores the community’s commitment to fostering professional excellence and elevating industry standards.
This development reflects the collective efforts of UAECAGPC’s members, administrators, and supporters, who have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality.
The organization expressed heartfelt gratitude to all contributors, emphasizing that their unwavering belief in the community’s goals has been a cornerstone of this success.
As UAECAGPC moves forward, the organization aims to continue its efforts in driving innovation, setting benchmarks, and creating a brighter future for the cargo airline and GSSA sectors.
This milestone not only solidifies UAECAGPC’s legal standing but also strengthens its foundation to better serve its growing network of professionals and stakeholders in the industry.
MEDLOG and Egypt’s General Authority for Land and Dry Ports (GALDP) have signed a PPP contract for the financing, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of a 250-acre dry port and logistics zone in the 10th of Ramadan City.
The project, part of Egypt’s broader plan to transform into a regional transport and logistics hub, aligns with President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s vision to boost Egypt’s role in transit trade.
The site will be divided into two zones: 130 acres for the dry port and 120 acres for the logistics area. It aims to reduce congestion at sea ports, improve trade movement, and lower transport costs, while enhancing supply chain efficiency.
The development will link industrial, agricultural, and mining areas with major sea ports on the Red Sea and Mediterranean through improved road and rail networks.
Also Read: Khalifa Port Strengthens Position as Global Trade Hub with New CMA Terminals.
As part of the larger initiative to establish 32 dry ports and logistics zones across the country, the 10th of Ramadan project will also contribute to creating job opportunities and supporting industrial growth, positioning Egypt as a key player in regional and international logistics.
MEDLOG, as one of the world’s geographically widest logistics and supply chain operators, continuously invests in proprietary assets, such as inland logistics platforms, warehouses, trucks, locomotives and barges. These strategically located assets increase logistics efficiency for our customers, enabling us to cater for their unique supply chain requirements. With a presence in more than 80 countries, MEDLOG guarantees tailored, door-to-door solutions as well as large, off-dock storage facilities supported by expert teams.
MEDLOG is part of the MSC Group, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and privately owned. The Group encompasses a Cargo Division, led by MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and a Passenger Division, led by MSC Cruises.
ECS Group has achieved a major milestone by landing a historic Total Cargo Management (TCM) contract with JetSMART Airlines, the leading low-cost carrier group in South America.
JetSMART Airlines operates under four national AOCs: JetSMART Airlines Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. The airline offers a broad range of domestic flights within these countries, along with international routes connecting them to each other, as well as to Brazil, the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
This four-year partnership, beginning January 1, 2025, covers JetSMART Airlines’ operations across these four countries, marking the first-ever TCM agreement with a regional airline in South America. As a member of the Indigo Partners group, JetSMART Airlines boasts a modern fleet of A320 and A321 aircraft.
ECS Group will manage nearly 25,000 flights annually and significantly develop domestic markets for JetSMART Airlines’s four national AOCs.
Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “This partnership is a landmark achievement for ECS Group. Being entrusted by JetSMART Airlines reinforces our reputation as a global leader in Total Cargo Management. It reflects our proven expertise, innovative digital solutions, and ability to deliver exceptional results across continents. We are proud to see airlines worldwide placing their confidence in our capabilities.”
ECS Group will establish dedicated commercial and operational teams in each country, all coordinated through its state-of-the-art control tower in San José, Costa Rica. Under the TCM contract, JetSMART Airlines will leverage ECS Group’s Total Cargo Expertise (TCE) to ensure unparalleled quality, safety, and security in cargo operations. In addition, JetSMART Airlines will benefit from ECS Group’s close collaboration with CargoTech, gaining access to advanced digital tools, including eBooking via CargoAI, capacity management, and revenue optimization platforms. These cutting-edge solutions will streamline operations, maximize efficiency, and enable JetSMART Airlines to optimize its cargo potential across domestic and international markets.
Also Read: NAV AERO Expands Airline Portfolio with LOT and Oman Air Cargo Partnerships.
By focusing on high-demand commodities such as salmon, perishables, minerals, and mail services, this new venture positions JetSMART Airlines as a key player in strengthening South America’s cargo connectivity to global markets. This agreement also represents the first TCM contract outside Europe with a local airline, further cementing ECS Group’s position as a trusted leader in Total Cargo Management worldwide.
Aramex, a leading global logistics and transportation solutions provider, has taken a significant step towards decarbonizing logistics in the oil and gas sector, launching its first commercial deployment of electric trucks and charging solutions in the UAE.
Partnering with the UAE-based Admiral Mobility, Aramex has introduced a fleet of eight-ton Farizon electric trucks, powered by a 162kwh battery, tested and certified for operations in the UAE and KSA.
The initiative aligns with Aramex’s strategy to pioneer sustainable logistics solutions for its clients, reducing the environmental impact of industrial supply chains. The electric trucks will support Aramex’s oil and gas clients by providing efficient, eco-friendly transportation options, driving the logistics leader’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
A special event marked the successful launch of the electric trucks, with teams from both Aramex and Admiral Mobility celebrating the milestone.
Tarek Abuyaghi, General Manager UAE, Aramex, said: “At Aramex, we are committed to reducing our negative environmental impact through innovative sustainable practices. The partnership with Admiral Mobility advances our ambitions of increasing efficiency, lowering energy consumption and material use, as well as improving our environmental footprint. We look forward to accelerating our net-zero ambitions and offering customers greener, cleaner logistics solutions.”
Graham Bremer, General Manager, Admiral Mobility, said: “We are proud to be working with Aramex and assisting them on their drive to more sustainable logistics. The deployment of these electric trucks will enable further understanding of operating commercial EV which will help Aramex on transitioning their fleet to EV. We are super excited to be on this journey with Aramex.”
Also Read: First MAN eTruck Starts with Duvenbeck in Emission-free VW Plant Logistics.
This deployment is part of Aramex’s comprehensive sustainability efforts, which include energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy investments, and sustainable packaging solutions. It complements the recent addition of e-bikes and fully electric vans to Aramex’s last-mile delivery fleet in the UAE, part of the company’s goal to convert 98% of its fleet to electric by 2030. From reducing carbon emissions through innovative last-mile delivery solutions to implementing energy-efficient technologies across its global network, the company has consistently prioritized sustainable growth.
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