Emirates Skycargo, Emirates Airlines' cargo division, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with African cargo airline Astral Airlines, to strengthen global trade connectivity with Africa. The partnership aims to leverage the networks and expertise of both airlines to support increased cargo distribution and increase access to businesses across the continent.
Astral Aviation currently operates a network of 50 intra-Africa destinations through scheduled services and charter flights. In comparison, Emirates Skycargo serves more than 145 global destinations using passenger aircraft and dedicated cargo ships. Both airlines share their expertise in transporting sensitive cargo, such as fresh produce and pharmaceuticals, which are key products in the African market.
The contract has been officially signed in Air Cargo Africa with representatives from Badru Abbas, Senior Vice President of Emirates Sky Cargo and Sangie Evgadia, CEO of Astral Airlines. Under the MOU, the two airlines will work together on initiatives such as expanding interline contracts for freight and developing block space arrangements to increase connectivity for African companies in international markets.
Focus on expanding trade and connections
Badr Abbas highlighted the importance of Africa's economic potential, noting that the continent is the hub of some of the fastest growing economies in the world. He emphasized the importance of improving logistics infrastructure and expanding market access to support global trade and economic development.
Sanjeev Gadhia repeated this sentiment, explaining the agreement as a milestone in the 15-year commercial relationship between the two airlines. He said the collaboration aims to promote innovation and improve global trade connectivity for African companies.
Broader economic background and trade cooperation
The agreement comes amid an increase in economic and investment relations between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Africa. The United Arab Emirates has become the largest investor from the African Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and is ranked as the fourth largest global investor on the continent. Recently, the UAE and Kenya have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to promote trade and investment in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and renewable energy.
The partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Airlines is expected to support trade growth initiatives in parallel with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA).
Expanding operations in Africa
Emirates Sky Cargo was its first flight to Cairo, Egypt, and began operations in Africa in 1986. Since then, the airline has expanded its presence across the continent, now holding seven planned cargo ships and abdomen, and cargo capacity to 20 destinations across Africa with 172 passenger flights.
Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, Astral Airlines has been operating for 24 years and offers airline ticketing services across Africa with its operational hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liege and Dubai. The company continues to provide cost-effective airline ticketing solutions to meet the growing demands of within Africa and global trade.
For more information:
Emirates Sky Calgo
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www.skycargo.com
