Etihad Cargo has reported an 8% year-on-year increase in revenue for 2025, supported by a 9% rise in volumes to 703,000 leg tonnes.
The logistics arm of Etihad Airways said the results reflect sustained demand across key trade lanes and continued strength in its specialised product portfolio.
Growth was recorded across core verticals. FlyCulture rose by 89%, driven by shipments of artwork and museum exhibitions, while LiveAnimals increased by 121% year-on-year.
PharmaLife expanded by 22% as the carrier strengthened its temperature-controlled pharmaceutical capabilities, and FlightValet grew 174% following enhancements for luxury vehicle customers.
A key strategic development in 2025 was the deepening of its partnership with SF Airlines. Through a Joint Business Agreement, Etihad Cargo said it became the largest cargo operator between mainland China and the Middle East, reinforcing trade corridors for e-commerce, electronics and pharmaceuticals.
The agreement has strengthened connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key Chinese hubs, linking Shenzhen and Ezhou within an integrated network and further positioning Abu Dhabi as a global logistics gateway.
Digital capability was also enhanced during the year with the launch of SmartTrack, an AI-powered shipment visibility solution. The system uses IoT and advanced data analytics to provide proactive, end-to-end tracking and real-time monitoring.
Operational metrics remained robust. Etihad Cargo achieved a Delivered As Promised (DAP) rate of 88% and an On-Time Performance (OTP) of 81%, highlighting what it described as one of its most reliable performances to date.
To meet rising demand, the carrier expanded freighter services across Shenzhen, Ezhou, Hong Kong, Riyadh, Paris and Frankfurt, alongside new deployments from Phnom Penh and East Midlands. It also secured dedicated Boeing 777 freighter capacity operated by Atlas Air, enhancing connectivity between Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi and Madrid and bringing its total freighter fleet to six aircraft.
Stanislas Brun, chief cargo officer at Etihad Airways, said: “2025 was a milestone year for Etihad Cargo, driven by the trust of our customers and the dedication of our global team. We achieved strong growth across every major product line, expanded our network to meet rising demand, and delivered one of our most reliable operational performances to date.
“Becoming the largest cargo operator between the Middle East and mainland China underscores our strategic focus on building future-ready trade corridors.
“As we look ahead, we remain committed to elevating service quality, investing in our people and partnerships, and ensuring Abu Dhabi continues to grow as a leading global logistics hub.”
Looking ahead, Etihad Cargo said it will continue to scale its network in line with demand, deepen strategic partnerships and expand freighter capacity.
With specialist products performing strongly and China corridors expanding, the carrier appears well positioned to support resilient supply chains and sustained trade growth across its global network.
READ MORE NEWS: Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines deepen China-UAE ties with new agreement
