AIR CARG O WEEK


WEEKLY NEWS BY Edward HARDY


ETIHAD Airways is accelerating operational changes and digital innovation to capture shifts in global airfreight, according to Stanislas Brun, the airline’s Chief Cargo Officer. Over the past couple of years, he has worked to reshape the cargo division, reflecting growing demand across Asia and the Middle East, prioritising digital tracking, innovative delivery solutions, and leveraging Abu Dhabi’s unique regulatory and infrastructure advantages. “I decided to separate North and South Asia to make it structurally


possible to better serve our customers and manage the different growth in the countries. It has generated positive results and allowed better stakeholder management across our operations,” Brun explained.


“We


implemented a more dynamic way of working, taking ownership of the fleet and day-to-day operations, which has improved our responsiveness.” The focus extends to forward-looking projects such as SmartTrack solution and collaborations with emerging logistics companies.


OPERATIONAL TRANSFORMATION AND MIDDLE EASTERN EXPANSION


“With


SmartTrack, we bring transparency from origin to destination, covering our network and beyond. It’s about meeting the shipper’s expectations for tracking and reliability,” he added.


Digitalisation reshapes operations Technology is not just a buzzword but a strategic tool


for long-term


development. Etihad is prioritising digitalisation to enhance customer service and operational efficiency. “We are constantly adapting to a rapidly changing world. Our projects aim to bring quality and attention to the forwarder and shipper, which ultimately benefits the airline and the customer,” Brun said. SmartTrack solution exemplifies this approach, providing end-to-end


shipment transparency. “Each shipper wants to know when their shipment will arrive. SmartTrackgives this visibility, covering not only our network but also connecting partners worldwide,” he noted. Similarly, the airline is investing in emergent delivery solutions such as EVTOL cargo drones. “Emergency shipments will require new technology. Our collaboration with Load aims to move beyond small parcels to potentially one-ton payloads in the next two to three years,” he continued. Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem enables early adoption of such


technologies. Brun cited government support as a key advantage: “With a ministry of AI and a willingness to innovate, Abu Dhabi allows us to define rules of engagement for new developments and train pilots for emerging vehicle types.”


Regional infrastructure strengthens global airfreight positioning The UAE’s infrastructure development supports Etihad’s operational ambitions and wider regional connectivity. Brun pointed to the new 90,000 sq m warehouse and East Midfield Terminal as strategic assets: “The new warehouse uses the latest technology, allowing better handling and integration with other cargo airlines. It’s designed to attract business and support broader regional growth.” Regional multimodal transport links are also central to the strategy. “The


planned rail network connecting Saudi Arabia, Oman, and UAE will improve goods movement,


reduce road congestion, and complement airfreight


operations,” he explained. Abu Dhabi International Airport itself enhances efficiency through advanced passenger and cargo processes, including facial recognition for seamless transit. “Efficiency and safety are priorities. Infrastructure development is aligned with future mobility and cargo requirements,” he added. The Middle East has a strategic advantage when it comes to connectivity. Its demographic trends,


including a younger, expanding population in


Southeast Asia and India, are driving demand for freight capacity and diverse product flows. “The concentration of major hubs in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, and Jeddah forms a highly connected unit. This position allows us to capture shifts in population and manufacturing across Asia while leveraging our airfreight network,” Brun said.


Strategic growth and long-term capacity planning Looking forward, Etihad aims to combine fleet modernisation, terminal expansion, and innovative digital services to enhance global competitiveness. “We will continue to provide targeted capacity and quality, not just volume, ensuring our services meet specific customer needs,” Brun highlighted. Interline agreements remain a growth driver, accounting for over 10


percent of cargo revenue. “Expanding interline connections allows us to offer services beyond our own network, supported by tools like SmartTrack for full shipment visibility,” he continued. Abu Dhabi’s strategic positioning, combined with proactive infrastructure


and regulatory support, underpins Etihad’s expansion. “All elements—from digitalisation to cargo terminals and regional connectivity—work together to generate value for Abu Dhabi and the UAE,” he concluded.


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www.aircargoweek.com


09 FEBRUARY 2026 ACW


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