Emirates SkyCargo partners with Astral Aviation to enhance global trade routes, boosting cargo connectivity and economic opportunities across Africa. (Image source: Emirates SkyCargo)
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astral Aviation, a leading African cargo airline, to explore new opportunities for enhancing global trade to and from Africa
Astral Aviation operates an extensive intra-African network, serving 50 destinations through scheduled and ad hoc charter services. Paired with Emirates SkyCargo’s expansive global network of over 145 destinations and a fleet that includes both passenger aircraft and dedicated freighters, the collaboration highlights Africa’s growing role in global commerce. Both airlines have extensive expertise in handling delicate cargo such as fresh produce and pharmaceuticals, which are essential commodities in the region’s trade.
Expanding Connectivity and Trade Opportunities
The agreement was formalised at Air Cargo Africa by Badr Abbas, divisional senior vice-president of Emirates SkyCargo, and Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation Limited. As part of the MoU, both airlines will collaborate on initiatives such as expanding cargo interline options and block space agreements to improve connectivity and expand market access for African businesses.
Badr Abbas highlighted the potential of the partnership, stated, “Home to 11 of the 20 fastest-growing economies, coupled with bold trade ambitions, there is immense growth potential in Africa. Given the breadth of our network, our all widebody fleet and our specialist product portfolio, we are well placed to support businesses reach new suppliers and customers in every corner of the globe. This partnership with Astral Aviation solidifies our longstanding commitment to the market, creating mutually beneficial economic opportunities to keep goods flowing quickly, reliably and efficiently.”
Sanjeev Gadhia added, “Today marks a pivotal step in our, over 15 years, commercial partnership and reflects our shared vision to elevate air cargo solutions to, from and within Africa. Together, we will unlock new opportunities, driving innovation and strengthening global trade connectivity.”
Strengthening economic ties between the UAE and Africa
Economic and investment ties between the UAE and Africa continue to expand, with the UAE ranking as the top GCC investor and the fourth largest global investor in Africa. Recently, the UAE and Kenya signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aimed at accelerating trade and investment across key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, financial services, and renewable energy. The partnership between Emirates SkyCargo and Astral Aviation aligns with these efforts, fostering trade growth and supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost Africa’s global exports by 32% by 2035.
Decades of commitment to Africa
Emirates SkyCargo launched its African operations in April 1986 with its first flight to Cairo, Egypt. Over nearly four decades, the airline has expanded its footprint across the continent, now operating seven dedicated freighters alongside bellyhold capacity on 172 passenger flights per week to 20 African destinations.
Astral Aviation, with global hubs in Nairobi, Johannesburg, Liège, and Dubai, has been a key player in African airfreight for 24 years, offering cost-effective and reliable cargo solutions across the continent.
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