New Etihad Cargo freighters symbolize expansion strategy

Etihad Cargo has taken delivery of three new Boeing and Airbus wide-body freighters, bringing the carrier's expanding fleet to nine aircraft, and heralding a massive 62 percent increase in tonnage uplift capability.
The latest arrival, a Boeing 747-8F, was unveiled to customers and partners at a special Etihad Cargo event held at Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies' (ADAT) Hangar 6.
In conjunction with Atlas Air, the freighter is being deployed on a new round the world scheduled routing taking in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Chicago, Miami, Viracopos, Quito and Amsterdam.
Two other freighters recently joining the fleet include one Boeing 777F and one Airbus A330F.
James Hogan, president and CEO, Etihad Airways, said: "These modern, fuel-efficient aircraft represent an important step in the growth and development of Etihad Cargo."
Hogan said: "As Etihad Cargo continues to work closely with its partners and expands in step with the growth and development of Abu Dhabi, these freighters will significantly enhance our capability to deliver a world-class service to our customers."
Etihad Cargo recently signed a multi-year aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance agreement with Atlas Air to provide and operate the Boeing 747-8 Freighter with its 138-ton cargo capacity for the new 'round the world' routing schedule.
William J. Flynn, president and CEO, Atlas Air Worldwide, said: "We are delighted to help Etihad Cargo extend its reach with next-generation performance in payload, fuel efficiency and total cost per ton-mile."
Abdul Khaliq Saeed, president MENA of the ADAT and Mubadala Aerospace MRO network, said: "It's a pleasure to bring the Boeing 747-8 Freighter to ADAT's state-of-the-art hangar for our national airline. We share a common vision with Etihad Airways."