Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways posted a 26 per cent year-on-year first quarter cargo volume increase, its strongest ever first quarter performance, according to Shipping Gazette.
Etihad Cargo carried 127,821 tonnes of freight and mail, seven times higher than the IATA's prediction that the international cargo market would only grow by four per cent in 2014.
The airline's cargo revenue also increased by 26 per cent to US$243 million.
"Although the global airline industry has faced challenges such as higher-than-expected fuel prices and fierce competition in key international markets, we raised the bar," said Etihad president and CEO James Hogan.
Etihad Airways' volumes were boosted by the growth of its route network, with 95 destinations operational by the end of the first quarter, an increase of six compared to the same period in 2013, said a company statement.
Cargo volumes were strengthened by the launch of a joint freighter service with DHL, serving Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council markets out of Abu Dhabi.
Etihad employs 18,543 people, an increase of 69 per cent year on year. Part of this increase can be attributed to Etihad Airways' acquisition of Abu Dhabi Airport Services, Abu Dhabi Cargo Company and Abu Dhabi In-Flight Catering in 2013.
-
Company DirectoryFreight RateExport RateAgency PartnershipCargo Leads