Etihad uses SkyCell’s smart containers

The Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad is collaborating with the startup company SkyCell. Thanks to the startup’s smart containers, Etihad can transport temperature-sensitive vaccines. According to a statement, Etihad successfully tested the 1500C containers in February when shipping vaccines from Amsterdam to Manila via Abu Dhabi.

SkyCell's containers are equipped with sensors that provide real-time temperature and humidity data. They have an operating time of 270 hours and self-recharge afterwards. Thanks to its connection with software, the solution can also predict potential problems. The containers kept the vaccines consistently cool and dry despite the high range of variables in temperature and humidity between Amsterdam, Abu Dhabi and Manila.

“At Etihad Cargo, we transport high-value, temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals across a global network. As such, we require trusted partners to ensure door-to-door delivery of the most high-risk goods. SkyCell perfectly encapsulates this, by sharing our commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation,” commented Fabrice Panza, Manager Global Cool Chain Solutions at Etihad Cargo. He added that thanks to SkyCell’s innovative technology, Etihad could monitor the pharmaceutical cargo’s journey in real-time. 

SkyCell, which has locations in Zug and Zurich, launched its solution in 2013. Since then, the company has completed several successful financing rounds. Among others, Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund ADQ and SHUAA Capital psc  from Dubai have invested in the startup. ssp