Etihad Airways and Swissport have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand their global ground handling and cargo partnership from 30 to 40 airports worldwide. The agreement, signed at Arabian Travel Market, adds 10 new locations across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia to Swissport’s existing work for the airline.
The MoU covers ground handling and cargo services, with scope to extend into airport hospitality through Swissport’s Aspire lounge brand, which operates 110 lounges globally. Both companies describe the arrangement as a long‑term framework that will allow additional airports and services to be added as Etihad’s network grows.
Etihad says consistent ground service across 40 airports will support its expansion and improve operational reliability.
“Working with one partner across 40 airports gives our guests the same experience whether they are departing from Europe, Asia or North America, and gives our operation the consistency it needs to match that expansion. By combining Swissport’s global expertise with Etihad’s ambitious plans, we can enhance efficiency, service quality and the guest experience across our operations, while creating a strong platform for what comes next,” said chief operations and guest officer, Etihad Airways, Captain Majed Al Marzouqi.
Swissport says its global network and technology capabilities will support Etihad’s growth.
“Etihad and Swissport are a natural fit. We share the same ambition for operational excellence and an uncompromising focus on the customer experience. Etihad is embarking on an exciting phase of growth, and Swissport is proud to support that journey with our global network, our teams’ operational expertise and our technology capabilities. Our track record in managing complex, large aviation hubs will enable us to support Etihad effectively wherever its growth takes it,” said president and chief executive officer, Swissport, Warwick Brady.
The partnership will also explore technology‑driven improvements, including automation, artificial intelligence and autonomous ground vehicles, to enhance efficiency, service delivery and safety across airport operations.
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