Etihad Airways and Swissport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding at Arabian Travel Market to expand their global partnership.

The deal will increase the number of airports where Swissport serves Etihad from 30 to 40, adding 10 new locations across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.

The MoU covers ground handling and cargo services, with potential to extend into airport hospitality via Swissport’s Aspire lounge brand, operating 110 lounges worldwide.

Both companies say they view the agreement as long-term, providing a framework to add airports and services as Etihad’s network grows.

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.” -TradeArabia News Service