Etihad Airways has expanded its global partnership with Swissport from 30 to 40 airports, strengthening cooperation across ground handling and cargo services. The agreement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed at the Arabian Travel Market in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The partnership adds 10 locations to Swissport’s existing support for Etihad Airways. The agreement gives the airline an operational framework as it develops its international network across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.
The two companies are examining opportunities to extend their cooperation into airport hospitality through Swissport’s Aspire brand, which operates 110 airport lounges worldwide.
Swissport Partnership Supports Etihad Growth
Chief Operations and Guest Officer, Etihad Airways, Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, said ground operations must maintain service standards as the airline expands.
“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.”
He added that the arrangement could strengthen operational efficiency, service quality and the guest experience. Meanwhile, the agreement gives both organisations room to add airports and services as Etihad’s network develops.
Swissport President and Chief Executive Officer, Warwick Brady, described the two companies as a natural fit. He said both organisations share an emphasis on operational excellence and 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.”
Ground Handling, Cargo and Hospitality
Under the MoU, Swissport will support Etihad through ground handling and cargo services across the expanded network. These services support aircraft movements, passengers, baggage and freight at airports.
For Etihad, expanding its relationship with one aviation services provider could create consistency across international operations. However, the exact scope of services can vary between airports based on local requirements.
The partnership also leaves room for airport hospitality services. Swissport could potentially extend its involvement through Aspire, its airport lounge brand, if both organisations proceed with plans.
Swissport Explores Technology
Technology and innovation are central to the expanded partnership. Swissport and Etihad intend to explore technologies capable of improving operational efficiency, service delivery and the passenger experience.
Their discussions include automation, artificial intelligence and data-driven operational insights. Swissport has also been working on autonomous ground vehicles as part of its technology development.
The companies said their technology ambitions would focus on safer, smarter and more seamless airport operations. At the same time, they intend to continue investing in people and capabilities required to support the expanded relationship.
The development reflects a broader shift in airport services, where technology is increasingly combined with human expertise. Therefore, such systems also require skilled personnel to operate and integrate them into airport environments.
For aviation stakeholders, developments involving major international ground handlers provide a useful reference as airlines expand across multiple markets. Consistent ground operations, cargo processes and passenger services remain important elements of international network growth.
The agreement is positioned as a long-term partnership rather than one expansion of services. Consequently, additional airports and service areas could be incorporated as Etihad’s network grows and operational requirements change.
For now, the agreement brings 10 additional airports into Swissport’s support network for Etihad. It combines ground handling, cargo capabilities and hospitality services across five global regions.
