Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines have revealed plans for a groundbreaking joint venture aimed at enhancing economic and trade cooperation between the UAE and China, while improving global logistics and connectivity.
The partnership seeks to combine the strengths of both airlines to deliver an integrated logistics solution. This collaboration will focus on increasing cargo capacity, improving transit times, and opening up new trade routes and destinations.
The two airlines have already been sharing capacity to facilitate global trade, and this new venture aims to take their cooperation to the next level. The joint project promises to expand connectivity, offering enhanced services to both customers and businesses.
Strengthening UAE-China Economic Ties
Commenting on the venture, Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of Etihad Airways, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “This historic joint venture is a true testament to the robust and growing relationship between the UAE and China,” Al Shorafa said. “Etihad is excited to embark on this new journey with SF Airlines, which will enable both airlines to provide even more connectivity, flexibility, and speed to customers for e-commerce and traditional air cargo verticals.”
The key focus of the joint venture will be on expanding aircraft capacity, shortening transit times, and enhancing global networks. SF Express, known for its international express services, will gain greater flexibility and faster access to European markets through this collaboration.
Expanding Global Logistics Operations
The partnership will not only increase the number of frequencies, hubs, and destinations but also streamline operations, making transitions smoother and more efficient for customers.
Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive of Etihad Airways, underscored the strategic importance of the collaboration, saying, “As the national carrier of the UAE, Etihad Airways is deeply committed to supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global logistics and express hub. This joint venture with SF Airlines is a critical step in realizing that vision.”
He added that the alignment of the two airlines’ strengths will contribute to the economic growth and diversification of key cities such as Abu Dhabi, Ezhou, and Shenzhen, positioning the UAE as a major player in global logistics.
Setting New Standards in Air Cargo Logistics
Wang Wei, chairman of SF Holding, expressed his enthusiasm for the joint venture, calling it a pioneering move for the air cargo industry. “By joining forces with Etihad Cargo, we are setting new standards for the industry, particularly in response to the rising demand for e-commerce, airmail, and parcel delivery,” Wei said. “This is a long-term commitment to enhancing the quality and reliability of our operations.”
The next steps for the partnership include finalizing the scope of the collaboration, with further updates and a definitive agreement expected soon.
