Etihad Cargo and China’s SF Airlines signed a formal agreement to create a joint venture in Shenzhen on 18 September.
It builds on the existing capacity sharing agreement between the Abu Dhabi and Chinese carriers and is described as “a full strategic alignment between Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines, combining their strengths to offer a unified, comprehensive logistics solution to customers worldwide”. It aims to integrate the customer service of Etihad Cargo with the capacity and reach of SF Airlines and boost UAE-China trade routes.
Benefits will include increased aircraft capacity, improved transit times, interconnected networks and the expansion of SF Express’s international express services.
Etihad Airways chief executive, Antonoaldo Neves, said: “This partnership will be pivotal in positioning the UAE as a key player in global logistics, benefiting both our nations and the broader market.”
Chairman of SF Holding, Wang Wei added: “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. This is a long-term commitment to enhancing the quality and reliability of our operations.”