Etihad Cargo partners with SF Airlines to strengthen UAE-China trade ties

Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines Form Historic Joint Venture to Enhance UAE-China Trade and Logistics

Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines have announced a plan to establish a first-of-its-kind joint venture to promote economic and trade cooperation and improve global logistics and connectivity.

The airlines say the joint venture will combine their strengths to offer a unified logistics solution with a focus on increasing capacity, improving journey times and expanding connectivity to new destinations.

Airlines already share the capacity to improve global trade routes, a mutually beneficial relationship for both airlines and their customers. The newly announced joint venture project will take this collaboration to unprecedented heights.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, said: “This historic joint venture is a true testament to the strong and growing relationship between the UAE and China.

“Etihad is excited to embark on this new journey with SF Airlines that will enable the two airlines to offer customers greater connectivity, flexibility and speed for e-commerce and traditional air cargo verticals.”

Increased aircraft capacity, faster travel times, network connectivity, and a wider range of SF Express’s international express services are all important components of the joint venture. With these enhancements, SF Airlines and its clients will benefit from more flexibility and quicker connections throughout Europe.

The cooperation will also expand the amount of frequencies, hubs, and destinations served, resulting in more seamless transitions and effective operations.

“As the national carrier of the UAE, Etihad Airways is deeply committed to supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a global logistics and express hub,” stated Antonio Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways. A crucial first step toward achieving that goal is this joint venture with SF Airlines.

“By aligning our strengths, Etihad Airways and SF Airlines are enhancing operations and contributing to the economic growth and diversification of Abu Dhabi, Zhou and Shenzhen.

“This partnership will be instrumental in establishing the UAE as a major player in global logistics, benefiting our countries and the wider market.”

Wang Wei, chairman of SF Holding, said the joint venture is a leading development in air cargo logistics between China and the UAE. Together with Etihad Cargo, we are setting new standards for the industry, especially with the growing demand for e-commerce, airmail and parcel delivery.

“This is a long-term commitment to increase the quality and reliability of our operations.”

The next phase of the partnership will involve finalizing the scope of the collaboration, the airlines say, adding that updates will be provided in the near future and a definitive agreement will be signed soon.