Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 7, Etihad Cargo, the logistics arm of Etihad Airways, and SF Airlines, China’s leading air cargo carrier, have announced a significant capacity increase under a Joint Business Agreement (JBA). The partnership strengthens airfreight connectivity between Abu Dhabi and two major Chinese logistics hubs, Shenzhen and Ezhou.

By integrating their freighter services, the JBA raises weekly flights to Shenzhen to nine. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, China’s first international cargo station operating 24 hours daily, offers fast turnaround times and improved customer experience. Flights to Ezhou Huahu Airport, Asia’s first dedicated cargo airport in Hubei Province, have increased to seven per week, enhancing both domestic and international reach. Under a metal-neutral arrangement, the airlines will jointly market their services, align standards, and coordinate pricing.

The collaboration targets fast-growing sectors such as cross-border e-commerce and pharmaceuticals. By combining Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech and PharmaLife solutions with SF Airlines’ extensive domestic distribution, the agreement facilitates seamless transport of electronics, time-sensitive goods, and precision equipment across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. The expanded totals include additional weekly flights recently added by Etihad Cargo in its winter 2025 schedule.

Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “Shenzhen and Ezhou represent two of China’s most active and efficient logistics hubs. Through our JBA, we are linking our customers to both China’s main distribution hub and an expanded global network. By strengthening our partnership with SF Airlines, we look forward to enabling new trade opportunities and connecting more businesses and communities beyond borders.”

Li Sheng, Chairman of SF Airlines, added: “This strategic collaboration is expected to generate significant business efficiencies, support revenue growth, and enhance customer satisfaction. By combining their strengths, Etihad Airways and SF Airlines are better positioned to offer world-class air cargo solutions that respond to the evolving demands of the global logistics industry.”

The agreement highlights the growing importance of integrated air cargo networks for international trade. The JBA allows both airlines to optimize freighter capacity, reduce operational costs, and enhance service reliability. By linking key Chinese hubs with the Middle East, the collaboration supports supply chains for high-demand industries while meeting tight delivery timelines.

The partnership also demonstrates a commitment to improving logistics infrastructure and connectivity, particularly for specialized cargo such as pharmaceuticals, electronics, and precision equipment. By combining expertise and resources, Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines aim to create a more resilient and efficient airfreight network that serves businesses across Asia, the Middle East, and other global markets.

Through this capacity increase, the airlines reinforce their positions as leaders in air cargo, offering expanded schedules, improved service, and greater access to critical trade routes for customers worldwide.