Etihad gets first Boeing 747-400 freighter

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has signed a contract with Atlas Air, a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services, to provide the airline with its first Boeing 747-400 freighter.

 The aircraft, with a payload capacity of 124 tons, will be used by Etihad Cargo to transport fresh produce, machinery and garments on routes to and from Africa, Europe, India and China over the Abu Dhabi hub.  Delivery and commencement of operations are scheduled for June.
 US-based Atlas’ contract with Etihad Airways is for one aircraft under a multi-year aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance (ACMI) agreement.
The delivery will take Etihad Cargo’s fleet to six aircraft. The airline already operates a Boeing B777F, two Airbus A330-200F, one Airbus A300-600F, and one McDonnell Douglas MD-11F.
 Etihad Airways has an additional four freighters scheduled for delivery in 2013 and 2014, two Boeing B777F and two Airbus A330-200F.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways president and chief executive officer, said:  “In Atlas Air, we have found a first-rate partner focused on operational excellence, security and outstanding customer service. We look forward to a rewarding relationship that leverages each of our expertise to grow global trade.”
 David Kerr, Etihad Airways vice president Cargo, added:  “We are strongly committed to building our presence in the cargo sector and to serving the growing demand from our customers around the world.  We have the fortune of geography and being able to bridge many of the trade flows from producer to consumer markets.”
“We are delighted to add Etihad Airways to our portfolio of ACMI customers,” said William J. Flynn, president and chief executive officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “Atlas Air has the largest and most modern fleet in our industry, with a mix of cargo and passenger aircraft, serving customers who are leaders in their markets.
 
“Etihad Airways takes pride in providing reliable, high-quality service across its expanding international route network. We look forward to welcoming not only a new customer for Atlas Air, but also future opportunities for strategic expansion for both companies,” he added.