Etihad’s new 777F service to Singapore highlights future network trajectory

[caption id="attachment_411740" align="alignright" width="300"] Etihad Cargo's "simplified" freighter fleet is comprised of five 777Fs.[/caption] Beginning today, Etihad Cargo (EY) will connect its Abu Dhabi (AUH) hub with a weekly 777F flight to Singapore’s Changi Airport (SIN). Flights will depart Abu Dhabi every Thursday and will stop in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) on the return. The new service is the latest in a recent string of network tweaks that aim to maximize the utilization of the carrier’s recently downsized freighter fleet, which now centers around promising long-haul air cargo markets accessible from AUH by 777F. Since December 2017, Etihad Cargo has halved its freighter fleet as part of broader cost-saving measures to restructure the loss-making airline, which last year reported a loss of US$1.28 billion. In January 2018, Etihad parked its entire medium widebody fleet of five A330-200Fs. These aircraft were acquired by DHL Express shortly after, and three are now in service with DHL’s airline affiliate, EAT Leipzig. It was therefore seen as a surprise in December 2018, when Etihad Cargo took delivery of a sixth 777F (60509) [FAT 004701]. Despite having taken delivery of a sixth unit, the 777F does not appear to be carrying cargo sold by Eithad. In a release from the carrier regarding the new Singapore Service, EY confirmed it operates a “simplified” fleet consists of “five” 777Fs. Where, then, does that leave the sixth 777F? According to data from FlightRadar 24, Etihad’s recently delivered 777F has been flying regularly between Dubai (DWC) and Hong Kong (HKG). Although the aircraft is crewed by Etihad, Cargo Facts believes it is operated on an ACMI basis for another carrier – likely Emirates. Dubai-based Emirates, for its part, recently shed a 777F , which would make sense if the carrier were indeed increasing its reliance on ACMI lift. Returning to the Singapore service, the flight is part of the carrier’s strategy to “maximize freighter-to-bellyhold flows” with a mix of flights to Europe, Asia, and North America from AUH. Most recently, this has meant additional flights to Asia. In October 2018, Etihad added weekly frequencies to Shanghai and Chennai.

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