Etihad Airways expands Swissport partnership to 40 airports worldwide
MoU signed during Arabian Travel Market 2026 in Dubai
DUBAI – Etihad Airways and Swissport have expanded their global partnership, increasing the number of airports where the Swiss aviation services company supports the UAE national carrier from 30 to 40.
The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026 in Dubai, establishing a wider framework for ground handling and cargo services as Etihad continues to grow its network.
The expanded agreement covers airports across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. Ten additional locations will now be added to the work Swissport already performs for Etihad, extending the companies’ operational relationship across more international markets.
Wider services
Under the MoU, Etihad and Swissport will collaborate on ground handling and cargo operations, while also exploring the possibility of extending their relationship into airport hospitality.
This could include Swissport’s Aspire brand, which operates 110 airport lounges worldwide. The agreement is structured as a long-term partnership, allowing both companies to consider adding further airports and services as Etihad’s network expands.
Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer at Etihad Airways, said the airline’s growth requires consistent ground services at every new destination.
“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,” he said.
Al Marzouqi said having one partner supporting operations across 40 airports would help provide consistency for Etihad guests while supporting the airline’s expanding operations across Europe, Asia and North America.
Warwick Brady, President and Chief Executive Officer of Swissport, said the company would support Etihad’s expansion through its global network, operational expertise and technology capabilities.
Tech & innovation
Technology and innovation will form a key part of the expanded relationship, with the companies exploring ways to improve operational efficiency, service delivery and the passenger experience.
Their work will include automation, artificial intelligence and data-driven insights, alongside Swissport’s development of autonomous ground vehicles. The companies said these technologies could support safer and more seamless airport operations while strengthening the capabilities of their teams.
Swissport’s experience in managing complex aviation hubs will also be used to support Etihad as the airline adds destinations and expands its international footprint.