Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has appointed Roy Kinnear as the new senior VP of Etihad Crystal Cargo, replacing executive VP Des Vertannes, who is leaving Etihad to take up a senior role with IATA as global head of cargo.

Kinnear, who will be based at Etihad’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, will be responsible for the strategic development and growth of Etihad’s cargo division, which offers a range of cargo services linked to the airline’s expanding route network and fleet. Kinnear has over 20 years experience in the airline industry. Prior to joining Etihad in 2006 as VP of revenue management, he held various senior positions.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ CEO, said: “Etihad Crystal Cargo has grown considerably since it was launched in 2004 and Roy’s wealth of experience in the airline industry will be crucial to the further development of this specialised division. Roy’s particular expertise in balancing yield and load factor across the network to optimise revenue will be invaluable as our cargo operation matures and focuses more closely on increasing its contribution to the Etihad group.”