US-based National Airlines, a division of National Air Cargo Group, Inc., has entered an interline agreement with Middle East's Etihad Cargo to roll out the ICAIR23 program for the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Etihad Cargo announced that the agreement initiates a "unique partnership," as it combines National's extensive experience in providing international freight transportation services with Etihad Cargo's global commercial network. 

It explained that under phase 1 of the ICAIR23 program, National Airlines — a US flag carrier with P1 preferences — will dispatch USPS civilian, military, and diplomatic mail using the scheduled services of Etihad Cargo across several awarded lanes for the period 2023 -2027.

"It's our honour to once again be part of the ICAIR program for USPS. This time it brings us much pleasure in collaborating with Etihad Cargo, a dynamic and rapidly growing global airline. We are looking forward to this association and hope to provide best-in-class mail delivery experiences to customers around the world through this program," said Christopher Alf, chairman of National Air Cargo Group, Inc.

Tim Isik, vice president of commercial at Etihad Cargo, for his part, noted that the cargo carrier is "committed to making the transportation of mail across the carrier's network as seamless and efficient as possible."

"Etihad Cargo's partnership with National Air Cargo Group will enable the two airlines to join forces to enhance international USPS mail deliveries, providing greater connectivity to destinations across Etihad Cargo's global network and providing customers with an efficient service," Isik added.

Etihad Cargo noted that this association is set to enhance the efficiency of international USPS mail deliveries, demonstrating a shared commitment to the ICAIR program.

Customers can expect improved transit times, enhanced tracking capabilities, and a more seamless end-to-end experience to move their mail and packages, the Middle Eastern airline added.

Phase 1 of the ICAIR23 program, powered by experienced personnel and subject matter experts, is slated to launch in August 2023 and continue through August 2027.

Etihad noted that the teams are looking forward to working together in a close alliance to service USPS customers globally.