Emirates SkyCargo, the airfreight division of Emirates Airlines, has once again been crowned International Airline of the Year at the prestigious STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo. This marks the second consecutive year that Emirates SkyCargo has received this honor, which is awarded based on votes by readers of STAT Times, a leading publication in the air cargo industry. The award recognizes the critical role Emirates SkyCargo plays in global logistics and its contributions to facilitating international trade.
The announcement was made during a ceremony held in Nairobi, Kenya, coinciding with the Air Cargo Africa 2025 event. The Emirates SkyCargo team, led by Dennis Lister, Senior Vice President of Product and Innovation, and Khalid Al Hinai, Vice President of Cargo Commercial for Africa, UAE, and the Middle East, accepted the award in the presence of key industry leaders and stakeholders from the air freight and logistics sectors.
A Testament to Excellence in Global Logistics
Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, Badr Abbas, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “Emirates SkyCargo is the benchmark for excellence in the global logistics industry. Our commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence has firmly positioned us as the world’s leading cargo airline. We will continue to work with our partners and customers to redefine the future of air cargo and contribute to the global economy.”
Emirates SkyCargo operates an extensive network that connects over 145 destinations across six continents through its state-of-the-art Dubai hub. The airline is renowned for its ability to transport a wide range of goods, from perishables and pharmaceuticals to high-value commodities, with speed and reliability.
Strengthening Global Trade, Especially in Africa
One of the key highlights of Emirates SkyCargo’s operations is its significant role in strengthening global trade lanes, particularly in Africa. The airline transports approximately 820 tonnes of cargo in and out of Africa every week, connecting African manufacturers and exporters with international markets. This has been instrumental in boosting trade and economic growth across the continent.
Abbas emphasized the airline’s commitment to Africa, stating, “For nearly four decades, Emirates SkyCargo has been solving the transportation challenges of businesses worldwide, utilising both passenger aircraft and dedicated freighters to move goods efficiently. The airline is recognised for its industry-leading services and commitment to innovation, ensuring reliable and fast delivery of goods across the globe.”
Engaging in Critical Industry Discussions
During Air Cargo Africa 2025, Emirates SkyCargo actively participated in discussions about Africa’s growing role in global trade. The airline’s leadership shared insights on the future of air cargo and highlighted the opportunities and challenges facing Africa’s logistics network. These discussions underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the unique needs of the African market.
In a fireside chat, Abbas elaborated on his vision for Emirates SkyCargo’s future, reaffirming the airline’s confidence in the continued significance of air freight in international trade. He highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and innovation to enhance efficiency and meet the evolving demands of customers.
A Legacy of Innovation and Customer-Centric Solutions
Emirates SkyCargo’s success is rooted in its unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The airline has consistently introduced cutting-edge solutions to address the challenges of the air cargo industry. From temperature-controlled facilities for perishables and pharmaceuticals to specialized services for high-value and oversized cargo, Emirates SkyCargo has set new standards for excellence in logistics.
The airline’s fleet of dedicated freighters and belly-hold capacity on passenger aircraft enables it to offer flexible and reliable solutions for businesses of all sizes. This versatility has made Emirates SkyCargo a preferred partner for companies looking to expand their global reach.
Looking Ahead: Redefining the Future of Air Cargo
As Emirates SkyCargo celebrates its second consecutive International Airline of the Year award, the airline remains focused on driving innovation and shaping the future of air cargo. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, digital transformation, and customer-centric solutions, Emirates SkyCargo is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the global logistics industry.
Abbas concluded, “We are honored to receive this recognition from STAT Times and the air cargo community. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the trust our customers place in us. As we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in air cargo and delivering value to our customers and partners around the world.”
Conclusion
Emirates SkyCargo’s recognition as International Airline of the Year for the second consecutive year is a testament to its excellence in global logistics and its contributions to international trade. The airline’s innovative solutions, customer-centric approach, and commitment to operational excellence have set it apart as a leader in the air cargo industry.
As Emirates SkyCargo continues to redefine the future of air cargo, its focus on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration will ensure that it remains at the forefront of the industry. With a strong presence in Africa and a global network that connects businesses across six continents, Emirates SkyCargo is poised to drive economic growth and strengthen global trade for years to come.
