Emirates Group has announced its strongest half-year financial performance, recording a profit before tax of AED 10.4 billion (USD 2.8 billion) for the first half of 2024-25, marking a record high.
This surpasses last year’s performance despite the introduction of a 9% UAE corporate income tax, which led to a profit after tax of AED 9.3 billion (USD 2.5 billion).
Growth Driven by Strong Demand Across All Divisions
The Group’s revenue for the period hit AED 70.8 billion (USD 19.3 billion), up 5% from the previous year, showcasing strong demand across its various business sectors. Emirates SkyCargo and dnata were pivotal in driving this growth, with notable increases in air cargo volume and global operations.
Emirates SkyCargo’s Record-Breaking Performance
Emirates SkyCargo saw exceptional growth in air freight, transporting 1.2 million tonnes of cargo in the first half of 2024-25, an increase of 16% compared to last year.
“Strong customer demand, particularly from China’s eCommerce sector, and added freighter capacity have been key drivers in this performance,” said Emirates President, Sir Tim Clark. “We’re continuously investing in our fleet, with new Boeing 777 freighters, and expanded operational capacity to support this growth.”
Emirates SkyCargo’s success also resulted in an 11% increase in cargo yields, emphasizing its strengthened position in global air logistics. The department added a new Boeing 777 freighter and two additional Boeing 747 freighters to its fleet, further expanding its capacity to meet growing demand.
dnata’s Expansion and Growth
dnata, the Group’s ground services provider, has demonstrated a strong performance across its diverse operations, including cargo, ground handling, catering, and travel services. dnata’s revenue reached AED 10.4 billion (USD 2.8 billion), an 11% increase from last year, with cargo handling and airport operations contributing to the largest share of revenue.
“dnata has continued to capitalize on market opportunities and invest in infrastructure to ensure we meet the growing demand across key markets,” said Steve Allen, dnata’s CEO. “Our investments in new ground support equipment and expanded capacity in Zurich and Raleigh-Durham are just a few examples of how we’re enhancing our global footprint.”
In the first half of 2024-25, dnata’s cargo operations handled 1.5 million tonnes, an 18% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, the division’s flight catering services saw a revenue increase of 8%, with expanded production in key regions like Australia and the UK.
Sustainability and Innovation
Both Emirates and dnata are committed to sustainability. Emirates continued its efforts to reduce carbon emissions by uplifting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in locations such as Singapore and London Heathrow. The airline also launched a partnership with the Aviation Impact Accelerator at the University of Cambridge to fund research into emissions reduction.
Dnata, too, is focused on reducing its environmental impact. The company transitioned its entire fleet of non-electric ground vehicles in the UAE to biodiesel and added more electric ground support equipment (GSE) in Brazil and the UAE.
Outlook for the Rest of 2024-25
The Emirates Group remains confident in the continued growth of its operations. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and Group, stated, “We expect customer demand to remain strong through the remainder of 2024-25, supported by new aircraft joining the Emirates fleet and enhanced facilities at dnata.”
As the group continues to expand its operations, particularly through the development of new routes and the addition of new aircraft, it is poised for further success in the latter half of the year.
Continued Investment and Expansion Across the Group
Emirates has committed billions of dollars to invest in new products, technology, and employee satisfaction to ensure long-term growth. The first retrofitted Boeing 777s, which include the introduction of new Premium Economy seating, have already been deployed on several routes, with more scheduled for the coming months.
Additionally, dnata has expanded its services in various regions, including launching ground handling operations at Raleigh-Durham International Airport in the United States and enhancing its cargo handling capacity in Zurich.
Both Emirates and dnata’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction underscores their ongoing commitment to shaping the future of global aviation and logistics.
SmartLynx Airlines, a globally acknowledged ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance), cargo and charter operator, announces the appointment of Tomas Jan (Tomáš Ján) as the Director of Flight Operations (DFO).
In this role, Tomas will be responsible for maintaining the highest safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance standards at the airline.
Stepping into his new role, Tomas Jan shares: “I am genuinely happy to join SmartLynx and be part of the airline’s future story. I believe that working together closely will allow us to improve our procedures, increase communication, achieve our shared goals, and continually strengthen our operations to continue raising the bar for safety and efficiency in the airline.”
Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO Jan Belina says: “I believe that Tomas’s background, dedication, and experience makes him a perfect fit for SmartLynx. His commitment to fostering open communication and effective internal cooperation will be crucial in helping us achieve our operational goals. This will ensure that SmartLynx remains and improves as a trustful partner for our clients and a rewarding working environment for pilots.”
Tomas Jan brings over 20 years of aviation experience, including 13 years as a Boeing 737 pilot. His career progression also includes roles as a Type Rating Instructor, Training Captain, and Deputy Director of Flight Operations. By joining SmartLynx, Tomas will apply his extensive piloting expertise and administrative skills to manage flight crew personnel effectively, ensure seamless flight operations, and further develop the department.
Cimcorp has appointed Pekka Natri as the new Head of Region for North America.
With nearly 30 years of global business development experience, Pekka is well-equipped to enhance Cimcorp’s presence in the region.
Pekka, who joined Cimcorp in 2018, has a successful track record of managing operations across multiple regions. He has played a key role in Cimcorp’s global expansion, including establishing offices in Chennai, India, and Sydney, Australia. Now, he’s focusing on strengthening the company’s operations in North America.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to strengthen Cimcorp’s position in North America,” said Pekka. “My goal is to make a positive impact today while laying the foundation for the future of automation in key sectors like grocery retail and tire manufacturing.”
Pekka brings a wealth of experience, particularly in biotechnical engineering and the technology industry. His leadership spans various markets including China, India, Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, and Finland, giving him a unique perspective on global business dynamics.
“Working with diverse teams across the globe has helped me appreciate different viewpoints,” said Pekka. “I encourage new ways of thinking, which helps our team collaborate better.”
Pekka emphasizes trust, transparency, and clear goals as the cornerstone of his leadership style. He aims to foster a collaborative environment where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas.
“Great leadership is about trust, transparency, and setting clear targets,” Pekka explained. “By working together as a team, we can achieve much more than we could alone.”
Pekka is also passionate about supporting employee growth. He plans to integrate career planning into Cimcorp’s processes, helping employees explore educational and career advancement opportunities.
“As Cimcorp grows, new opportunities will arise for our employees. I want to guide them toward their desired paths,” he said.
Outside of work, Pekka enjoys cooking, biking, and traveling on his motorbike. He has even hosted cooking classes for employees at his home.
“I’m always open to new experiences,” said Pekka. “I love stepping out of my comfort zone to learn and create something new.”
Please join us in welcoming Pekka Natri to his new role as Head of North America!
BGO Cold Chain, the cold storage division of global real estate investment manager BGO, has acquired Medley Cold Logistics, a 178,000 sq. ft. cold storage warehouse in Miami, Florida.
The property is fully leased to Quirch Foods, an international food distribution company. The acquisition was made on behalf of BGO’s Core Plus strategy.
This acquisition adds to BGO Cold Chain’s growing cold storage portfolio in Florida. It follows the joint acquisition of Miami-based SkyChefs Cold Storage with Iconic Equities in 2023. BGO is also involved in three ongoing cold storage development projects in Tampa and Jacksonville.
Jonathan Epstein, Managing Partner and Global Head of BGO Cold Chain, said, “Medley Cold Logistics adds to a growing portfolio of over 70 cold storage assets globally and highlights our continued conviction in this asset class.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to providing long-term solutions for its tenants.
The Medley Cold Logistics facility is strategically located near Miami International Airport and the Port of Miami. It offers easy access to Florida’s Turnpike and US-27. The property also has significant potential for expansion, with BGO’s experienced development team ready to meet the future growth needs of the tenant.
The seller was advised by the JLL Investment Sales and Advisory team, led by Managing Director Luis Castillo, Senior Director Cody Brais, and Associate Taylor Osborne.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), under the leadership of President & CEO Takeshi Hashimoto, has announced plans to construct a new logistics center at Port Island in the Port of Kobe.
The facility will feature two warehouses for dangerous goods and one for general cargo.
The decision aligns with MOL Group’s management plan, BLUE ACTION 2035, which focuses on transforming its business portfolio. The aim is to reduce the impact of shipping market volatility by increasing the proportion of stable, non-shipping, profitable businesses. Logistics investment, particularly in real estate, is a key part of this strategy.
MOL is also ramping up efforts in total logistics for chemical products. The new center, which will be operated by Japan Express Co., Ltd. (a MOL Group company), will strengthen its capabilities in handling dangerous cargo. Japan Express already has a strong presence at the Port of Kobe and specializes in freight services for hazardous materials. By 2026, the center will add two new dangerous goods warehouses, complementing an existing facility in Uozaki.
MOL has considered the Port of Kobe a critical hub for over 100 years. The company has continuously expanded its activities in the region through its port, logistics, and real estate ventures. Last year, MOL announced plans to expand the Kobe International Container Terminal. The new logistics center is expected to enhance services and contribute to the ongoing development of the Port of Kobe.
MOL aims to provide stress-free services to its customers while supporting the growth of the Port of Kobe with this new facility.
Smart Freight Centre (SFC), a global non-profit focused on reducing climate impacts in the freight sector, has signed a partnership agreement with the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA).
The agreement was formalized on September 26, 2024, at the 2024 FIATA World Congress in Panama.
This collaboration marks a key step in advancing the decarbonization of transport emissions within the logistics industry, in alignment with global Sustainable Development Goals.
“This is a further milestone for SFC, partnering with a prominent industry association in the transport value chain,” said Andrea Schoen, Director of Maritime & Aviation at SFC. “Following our agreement with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) earlier this year, our partnership with FIATA will engage more segments of the transport sector in efforts to reduce carbon emissions.”
As the global voice of freight logistics, FIATA represents over 40,000 logistics firms across 150 territories. Stéphane Graber, Director General of FIATA, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “This partnership with SFC is a crucial opportunity to equip FIATA members with the best knowledge and tools necessary to drive meaningful reductions in emissions and foster long-term sustainability.”
The first initiative under this partnership will be the launch of a co-branded emissions accounting training program. This program aims to help small and medium-sized logistics companies globally track their carbon emissions and implement effective reduction strategies.
Smart Freight Centre’s SFC Academy, a key hub for knowledge and learning, will play a central role in delivering the training. “The SFC Academy is recognized globally as a resource for organizations aiming to enhance their decarbonization expertise,” added Schoen. “We are excited to collaborate with FIATA to make this essential training widely accessible to the freight community.”
SFC’s Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) program has been instrumental in promoting transparent, consistent reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the logistics industry. The GLEC Framework has served as the foundation for ISO 14083, a soon-to-be-recognized global standard for calculating GHG emissions across transport and logistics chains.
This partnership underscores both organizations’ commitment to providing the logistics sector with the tools and knowledge needed to meet global decarbonization goals and promote sustainable development.
Boeing and Emirates SkyCargo recently announced an order for five more of the world’s largest and longest-range twin-engine freighter, building on its earlier purchase of five 777 Freighters.
The latest order, which was finalized in September and listed as unidentified on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website, brings Emirates’ order book to 249 Boeing widebody airplanes, including 14 777 Freighters.
As the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, Emirates SkyCargo plans to operate 21 777 Freighters in the coming years ─ nearly doubling its current fleet of 11 freighters as the carrier continues to expand capacity.
“We’re investing in new freighter aircraft to meet surging demand and provide our customers around the world with even more flexibility, connectivity and options to leverage market opportunity,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. “Demand for Emirates’ air cargo services has been booming. This reflects Dubai‘s growing prominence as a preferred and trusted global logistics hub, and also the success of Emirates SkyCargo’s bespoke solutions that address the needs of shippers in different industry sectors.”
The 777 Freighter can fly farther (9,200 kilometers / 4,970 nautical miles) and carry more freight (102 tonnes) than any other twin-engine cargo jet today. This capability enables operators to fly more freight on more nonstop routes with better operating economics, connecting high-value cargo markets such as the Middle East with the U.S. and Europe.
“Emirates continues to set the direction for our industry and we deeply appreciate the trust they have placed in the Boeing widebody family to serve as the backbone of their global fleet,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are proud to support Emirates SkyCargo’s growth as it relies on the performance and versatility of our 777 Freighter to further connect the world.”
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook forecasts an additional 2,845 freighters will enter service over the next 20 years to support growing global trade and e-commerce demand. The 777 Freighter is Boeing’s best-selling freighter of all time, with 275 delivered to date. As the market leader in freighter airplanes, Boeing provides more than 90% of the worldwide dedicated freighter capacity, including new production and converted airplanes.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity. Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established a number of offices across the region including in Riyadh, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Kuwait.
France-based global cool-chain logistics leader Seafrigo Group has appointed Bruno Plantaz as its new Group Chief Executive Officer, with company founder Eric Barbé assuming the role of President.
Plantaz, who brings over 20 years of experience in international freight forwarding and contract logistics, previously held senior leadership roles in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia at industry giants CEVA Logistics and Kuehne & Nagel.
The new leadership team will focus on advancing Seafrigo’s strategic growth, particularly through its global expansion initiatives.
Plantaz, based at Seafrigo’s new global headquarters in Le Havre, France, is tasked with overseeing worldwide operations and driving the organization’s long-term growth plan.
“Polishing a Sparkling Diamond”
“This company is a sparkling diamond, and now it needs to be polished to shine even brighter,” said Plantaz. “Seafrigo’s customer-centric and entrepreneurial spirit is exceptional. Our goal is to grow and expand our services to even more countries. We have a President with extraordinary business development skills, and I am delighted to work alongside him and the team he has built over the past 40 years.”
Seafrigo plans to expand its refrigerated services into new markets across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia.
Barbé commented, “Seafrigo has always prioritized innovation and quality in cool-chain logistics. With Bruno’s extensive expertise, we are well-positioned to scale our operations globally and provide enhanced services to our clients.”
Several announcements regarding Seafrigo’s expansion plans are expected in the coming months as the company solidifies its position as a global leader in cool-chain logistics.
United Airlines, through its United Cargo® division, is the leading U.S. based air cargo belly carrier with an extensive global network.
United Cargo is excited to announce a collaboration with cargo.one (Cargo One GmbH), which marks a significant milestone in our digital technology expansion efforts.
This new relationship will offer freight forwarders a streamlined online experience, simplifying the process of rate quoting, booking, and tracking shipments.
United Cargo has recently joined the cargo.one digital cargo booking platform. This will enhance United Cargo’s existing online booking capabilities and offer an alternative way for customers to book cargo capacity. Currently, the service on cargo.one is available to select customers in the U.S., Canada, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. United Cargo plans to progressively introduce the platform to additional markets in the months ahead.
“Customers are looking for innovative and efficient ways to engage with us and manage their air freight bookings. By teaming up with the cargo.one platform, we’re offering an additional digital channel that complements our existing online services and gives our customers the flexibility of more booking options,” stated Jan Krems, President of United Cargo. “We’re really excited about the digital journey we are on and our collaboration with cargo.one is another step forward in enhancing the customer experience.”
cargo.one delivers United Cargo visibility and marketing for its capacity across cargo.one’s vast digital footprint spanning dozens of countries. cargo.one offers freight forwarders a go-to standard for seamless digital air freight quoting and booking around the clock and is renowned for its easy and intuitive booking process. cargo.one delivers fully digital sales for over 60 cargo airlines globally and supports cargo airline teams to optimize and accelerate their digital sales trajectory.
Moritz Claussen, Founder & Co-CEO of cargo.one, commented, “Forwarders the world over prefer to book with cargo.one. A new combination of United Cargo capacity and the cargo.one platform provides every forwarder with a boosted ability to quote and win shipments around the clock. Collaborating as industry leaders, every customer will receive the maximum value and highest quality end-to-end digital experience possible”.
FedEx Corp., recently released its annual economic impact report, analyzing the company’s worldwide network and role in building prosperity in local communities during its 2024 fiscal year (FY 2024).
Produced in consultation with Dun & Bradstreet (NYSE: DNB), a leading provider of business decisioning data and analytics, the study underscores the ‘FedEx Effect’—the impact FedEx has on accelerating the flow of goods and ideas that generate economic growth globally, including significant investments in the Middle East.
“At FedEx, we have a vision to make supply chains smarter for everyone by leveraging advanced data and technology to better serve our customers and their customers, thereby extending our reach and impact,” said Raj Subramaniam, president and CEO, FedEx Corporation. “The ‘FedEx Effect’ represents our relentless commitment to excellence, economic growth, and the communities where we live and work.”
The report reveals that FedEx contributed more than US$85 billion in direct impact to the global economy in FY 2024, accounting for approximately 0.1% of the world’s total net economic output. In the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent and Africa (MEISA), FedEx directly contributed 0.1% to the net economic output of the region’s Transportation, Storage, and Communications sector in 2024. In addition, FedEx indirectly contributed an estimated US$280 million to the region’s overall economy in FY 2024.
“At FedEx, we are committed to supporting the impressive growth and transformation happening across the Middle East,” said Kami Viswanathan, regional president, FedEx MEISA. “Our infrastructure and services in this region are designed to empower local businesses and connect them to global opportunities. By investing in seamless, multimodal logistics solutions and state-of-the-art facilities, we aim to enhance cross-border trade while contributing to overall economic and environmental progress across the region.”
A key highlight is the launch of the state-of-the-art FedEx hub at Dubai World Central (DWC) Airport in Dubai South, which marks the company’s long-term investment of more than US$350 million into the UAE economy through infrastructure and technological advancements in the facility. The 57,000-square-meter hub features automated sort systems that process packages more efficiently and accurately, sustainable technologies such as energy-efficient systems and electric charging stations for FedEx and employee vehicles, and a 170-square-meter cold storage area to accommodate temperature-sensitive shipments. These features position the hub to boost the aviation and logistics sectors while solidifying Dubai’s role as a critical center for regional and international trade.
The company has also continued to expand its regional network with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a regional logistics facility in Qatar’s free zones, and the enhancement of intercontinental services between Vietnam and the Middle East through a new flight service that offers faster transit time for importers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
In addition, FedEx introduced new solutions to help SMEs and businesses in the Middle East elevate their shipping strategies and expand global trade opportunities. This includes the FedEx Less-than-Container Load Priority multimodal service, which utilizes an integrated ocean and road network to provide faster and cost-effective shipping from Asia Pacific to key Middle East markets. Meanwhile, through FedEx® Regional Economy and FedEx® Regional Economy Freight services, the company also offers deferred, cost-effective, day-definite road services for less urgent shipments within the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Jordan.
FedEx also contributed to the region’s sustainability initiatives by adding electric vehicles to its UAE fleet in FY 2024 and introducing FedEx® Sustainability Insights, a tool which allows customers to estimate the carbon footprint of their shipments within the FedEx network, supporting their own emissions reporting. FedEx team members also drove positive social impact by giving back to their communities through projects in 13 cities across MEISA. For example, in Ramadan, 100 FedEx team members in the UAE and Egypt packed more than 2,300 food hampers for those in need.
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
