Etihad Airways and Swissport Unlock Global Growth With Bigger Aviation Partnership

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Etihad Airways and Swissport have signed a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) during the Arabian Travel Market. With this newly signed MoU, Etihad Airways’ partnership with Swissport will provide ground handling and cargo services at an additional 10 destinations to the existing 30. It also creates the opportunity for Swissport to offer airport hospitality services at a range of global locations in the future.

The expanded agreement will increase Swissport’s operational support network for Etihad Airways from 30 airports to 40 locations worldwide, further enhancing collaboration across key aviation markets.

The partnership expansion covers airports across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, adding 10 new destinations to Swissport’s existing ground handling operations for the airline.

Under the new MoU, both companies will continue working together on ground handling and cargo services, while also exploring opportunities to expand into airport hospitality through Swissport’s Aspire lounge network, which operates more than 110 airport lounges globally.

The long-term agreement provides a flexible framework for future growth, allowing both companies to introduce additional airports and services as Etihad Airways continues to expand its international network.

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad is expanding at pace, and each new destination we add depends on the right standard of service being in place on the ground before the first flight arrives. 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.”

Warwick Brady, President and Chief Executive Officer, Swissport, said: “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.”

Technology and innovation will play a key role in the expanded collaboration as Etihad Airways and Swissport focus on improving operational performance, enhancing service quality and creating a smoother passenger experience. Through the use of automation, artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics, including Swissport’s developments in autonomous ground vehicle technology, both organisations aim to deliver safer, more efficient and smarter airport operations while strengthening workforce skills and capabilities for future growth.