Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, noted its growing presence in Japan as it marked the first anniversary of its operations in Osaka.

In 2024, Etihad Cargo handled 7,440 tonnes of cargo ex-Japan, with 2,911 tonnes moving through Osaka, accounting for 39.1% of the carrier's total tonnage in the country.

With three weekly flights from Osaka and seven from Tokyo, Etihad Cargo said it now operates 10 flights per week from Japan, providing seamless connections to more than 100 global destinations via its Abu Dhabi hub.

"Celebrating one year of operations in Osaka is a significant milestone for Etihad Cargo ... By providing innovative and reliable airfreight solutions, we look forward to further supporting the growing Japanese market and helping our customers meet their evolving logistics needs," said Stanislas Brun, vice president Cargo at Etihad.

The past year has seen exceptional product growth in Japan.

Etihad Cargo said its AirMail service recorded a 125.8% year-on-year growth, with Osaka alone experiencing a 208% increase — and now accounts for 39% of Japan's total AirMail tonnage.

In addition, the airline's SecureTech product, launched earlier this year for the safe transport of high-value lithium battery-powered electronics, has also seen strong uptake in Osaka, which now contributes 20.8% of Japan's total SecureTech tonnage.

Etihad Cargo noted that the main commodities handled by the carrier include automotive parts, electronics, machinery parts, and gaming consoles, which are shipped via Etihad Cargo's IATA CEIV-LiBatt-certified SecureTech product.

In Osaka, the airline also handles large volumes of textile raw materials, and ship parts, reflecting the diverse and essential nature of the goods moved through the region.

Etihad Cargo's digital transformation in Japan has also made significant strides. e-AWB penetration in Osaka reached 90% in 2024, while e-AWB penetration across Japan stands at 87%.

Etihad noted that, furthermore, online portal bookings in 2024 accounted for 9.53% of total bookings in Japan and 3.31% in Osaka, reflecting a growing reliance on digital solutions to enhance efficiency and streamline cargo operations.