Etihad Cargo, the air freight arm of Etihad Airways, and Astral Aviation, a prominent African cargo carrier, marked a new chapter in their collaboration with the successful completion of their inaugural flight from Nairobi, Kenya to Abu Dhabi, UAE on March 21st, 2024. This momentous occasion signifies the official launch of their joint venture, aiming to solidify Etihad Cargo's presence within the African market.
This inaugural flight comes on the heels of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two airlines. The MoU outlines a strategic partnership focused on network development and enhanced cargo movement between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi. By combining their strengths - Etihad Cargo's global network reach and Astral Aviation's extensive African coverage - the collaboration aims to streamline cargo transportation and open up new opportunities for businesses in both regions.
The recently launched route is scheduled to operate on a weekly basis, departing from Abu Dhabi every Thursday starting March 28th, 2024. This increased frequency is anticipated to significantly bolster trade ties between the United Arab Emirates and Africa. Businesses can expect the new route to cater to a diverse range of cargo needs, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and general cargo. Industry experts believe this development will not only expedite trade but also contribute to economic growth in both Africa and the UAE.
Expressing his enthusiasm on the successful inaugural flight, Stanislas Brun, Etihad Cargo's Vice President of Cargo, highlighted the long-term vision behind the partnership. "This is just the beginning of an ambitious journey for Etihad Cargo alongside Astral Aviation," Brun remarked. "We are confident that this collaboration will unlock significant potential within the African market, offering our clients unparalleled access and exceptional service."
Astral Aviation, well-regarded for its vast African network, brings crucial expertise to the table. This partnership allows Etihad Cargo to leverage Astral's established infrastructure and market understanding, enabling them to cater more effectively to African businesses. This strategic alliance is expected to transform the air cargo landscape between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, offering businesses a reliable and efficient route for their cargo needs.
The launch of this new route is a significant development for both Etihad Cargo and Astral Aviation. By joining forces, the two airlines are well-positioned to not only strengthen the trade connection between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi but also act as a catalyst for economic growth across the wider African and UAE regions.