Etihad Cargo, the logistics arm of Etihad Airways, and SF Airlines, a subsidiary of SF Holding, have announced a landmark joint venture, a significant milestone in the 40-year diplomatic relationship between the UAE and China.
During a meeting at SF Airlines’ Shenzhen headquarters, representatives from both airlines formalised their intentions to create this joint venture. Key attendees included Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways; Mansour Al Mulla, Vice Chairman; Antonoaldo Neves, CEO; Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo; Leonard Rodrigues, Director of Revenue Management; Wang Wei, Chairman of SF Holding; Li Sheng, Vice President of SF Group; and Alex Ho, CFO of SF Group.
This initiative builds on the successful partnership that has already enhanced connectivity and capacity between China, the UAE, and global markets. The collaboration has allowed both airlines to share capacity, improving global trade routes and benefiting customers.
The joint venture aims to elevate this collaboration, representing a complete strategic alignment that combines the strengths of both airlines to offer a comprehensive logistics solution for global customers. Al Shorafa remarked that this venture reflects the strong and growing UAE-China relationship, while Neves highlighted its role in supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision as a global logistics hub.
Key aspects of the joint venture include increased aircraft capacity, improved transit times, interconnected networks, and expanded distribution of SF Express’s international services, providing customers with greater flexibility and faster European connections.
Wang Wei emphasised the pioneering nature of this venture in air cargo logistics, setting new industry standards to meet rising demand for e-commerce and parcel delivery. The focus will be on integrating customer service and operational efficiencies, enhancing UAE-China trade routes significantly.
The next phase will involve finalising collaboration details, with updates and a definitive agreement expected soon. Both airlines are committed to a partnership aimed at better serving their customers and the global market.
