Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has launched "SecureTech" — a new consumer electronics transport service to ensure the safe movement of consumer electronics, including mobile phones, laptops, tablets and other lithium battery-powered devices.

The freight carrier said SecureTech is the ninth addition to the carrier's suite of premium products and was developed in response to growing global demand from the carrier's customers and partners for a product that addresses the challenges of transporting high-value electronic devices cost-effectively while minimising risks.

"To ensure the secure transportation of electronic devices, Etihad Cargo provides several security features," Etihad Cargo said.

It added that products transported via SecureTech are monitored during the build-up and break-down of palettes in secure and controlled storage areas at the origin, during transit and at the destination.

Constant surveillance is then provided by security personnel or CCTV systems, ensuring only authorised personnel have access to shipments during transportation.

Etihad Cargo noted that SecureTech also ensures the safe movement of consumer electronics.

Lithium batteries are the preferred energy source for a wide range of consumer electronics.

But the carrier said although they are widely used, lithium batteries can pose a safety risk if not handled in accordance with transport regulations due to their potential to ignite, explode or go into thermal runaway.

"Etihad Cargo's number one priority is safety, and the carrier recently became the third Middle Eastern airline to achieve the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators Lithium Batteries (CEIV Li-batt) certification," the announcement said.

"Achieving this globally recognised standard demonstrates Etihad Cargo's commitment to transporting lithium battery shipments safely using sophisticated safety management systems and specialised equipment," it added.

In addition to Etihad Cargo's facilities and operations, CEIV Li-batt certification also extends to the carrier's personnel.

"Etihad Cargo has launched SecureTech based on feedback from the carrier's partners and customers and the growing demand for a dedicated product to make the transportation of consumer electronics safer and more secure," said Leonard Rodrigues, acting managing director at Etihad Cargo.

"Over the years, Etihad Cargo has developed expertise in handling specialised products, and moving lithium battery-powered devices comes with unique challenges. Etihad Cargo is well-equipped to overcome these challenges thanks to its experience in transporting high-value, fragile, time- and temperature-sensitive, and dangerous goods," he added.

Surge in demand for consumer electronics transport

Etihad Cargo said it has witnessed a surge in demand for air cargo capacity for the transportation of consumer electronics, recording a significant increase in the number of mobile phone shipments from India.

"The latest market data suggests India's electronic exports exceeded US$20 billion in 2023, with mobile phones making up 52% of all electronic exports," Rodrigues said, adding that other top exporters of electronic devices included China and Vietnam.

"The launch of SecureTech, in combination with the introduction of new routes and increased frequencies for these key markets, will enable Etihad Cargo to fully meet the growing capacity demand for electronic shipments," he added.

Etihad Cargo said customers will be able to book SecureTech shipments from March 1, 2024.