Page 18 - SHARJAH AIRPORT PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2024

Press Release

Sharjah Airport Authority welcomes KQ Cargo to its cargo
operations

Thursday 29 February, 2024: Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA) has included Kenya
Airways Cargo into Sharjah Airport’s operating cargo companies. This inclusion is in
line with the Authority’s strategy to position the Airport as a leading international
cargo hub, adhering to the highest standards and best practices in the air cargo
industry. To mark this milestone, a reception was hosted by the Authority in the
presence of HE Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Airport Authority, HE
Sheikh Faisal Bin Saoud Al Qassimi, Director of Sharjah Airport Authority,
Honoruble Cosmas Kimutai Sigei, Chargé D'affaires, the Kenyan Embassy in Abu
Dhabi, Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director & CEO of Kenya Airways Cargo,
along with a group of directors and representatives of the Authority and Kenya
Airways and a number of visitors from both countries. This initiative underscores
SAA’s dedication to fortifying and enhancing its partnerships with strategic allies,
further offering passengers a distinctive and exceptional journey through premium
services.

Four direct weekly flights will be operated by the Kenyan carrier from Nairobi, the
capital of Kenya, to Sharjah Airport using B737F cargo aircraft.

HE Ali Salim Al Midfa said: “Sharjah Airport Authority is keen to develop the
logistical aspect of the airport’s business and enhance cargo services for its clients,
supported by a robust strategy designed to strengthen the airport’s position on the
travel map. We are proud of our extensive partnerships with international shipping
companies that contribute to expanding the destinations available to customers,
especially with the ongoing development of the shipping hub and our commitment to
providing shipping services aligning with the highest approved standards.”

Allan Kilavuka said: “The United Arab Emirates is ranked among the top exports and
imports trading partner for Kenya and other African countries. This trade constitutes
around 10 per cent of UAE's total trade. The launch of KQ cargo flights from Sharjah
to African cities is therefore significant in tapping into this growing demand that will
catalyse business growth within the Middle East and Africa. Our new Boeing 737-800
Freighters offers increased cargo capacity, a range of up to 7 hours out of Sharjah to
destinations across Africa and is available for charters.”