Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has announced the expansion of its European freighter network with a new route to Madrid, Spain. Key points from the announcement include:
1. Launch date: July 15, 2024
2. Service details:
- Two weekly Boeing 777 freighter flights between Abu Dhabi and Madrid
- Over 200 tonnes of additional cargo capacity for Europe
3. Significance:
- Increases total flights to Spain to 25 per week
- Highlights Madrid’s importance as a key European fashion hub
- Boosts e-commerce connectivity from Asia to Europe via Abu Dhabi
4. Expanded European network:
- Complements existing routes to Amsterdam (6 weekly flights) and Frankfurt (3 weekly flights)
- Total freighter flights to Europe will increase to 11 per week
5. Additional capacity:
- Belly hold capacity from increased passenger flights to various European destinations
6. Schedule:
- Two outbound flights from Madrid to Abu Dhabi (Mondays and Thursdays)
- Two inbound flights from Abu Dhabi to Madrid (Mondays and Wednesdays)
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, emphasized the importance of this new route in supporting growing e-commerce demand between Asia and Europe, as well as serving Madrid’s role as a key fashion hub.
This expansion further strengthens Etihad Cargo’s position as a leading air cargo carrier, leveraging Abu Dhabi’s strategic location to connect major trade lanes between Asia, Europe, North America, Australia, and Africa.