Etihad Cargo, SF Airlines expand China–UAE air freight network

Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, and China’s leading air cargo carrier, SF Airlines, have announced an expansion in their air freight operations between Abu Dhabi and China. The move, which follows the signing of their Joint Business Agreement (JBA) in June 2025, adds more flight frequencies to Shenzhen and Ezhou, two of China’s key logistics hubs enhancing trade and logistics connectivity between the UAE and China.

Under this agreement, the airlines have integrated their freighter services, bringing the total weekly flights to Shenzhen to nine. Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, home to China’s first 24-hour international cargo station, enables faster operations and improved customer experience. Meanwhile, flights to Ezhou, Asia’s first dedicated cargo airport located in Hubei Province, have increased to seven per week, offering strong domestic reach and growing international connections.

Signed by Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, and Li Sheng, Chairman of SF Airlines, the partnership operates under a metal-neutral model. It involves joint marketing, integrated airfreight services, aligned service standards, and coordinated pricing to deliver consistent quality and greater flexibility for customers.

The collaboration focuses on supporting fast-growing sectors such as cross-border e-commerce and pharmaceuticals. Etihad Cargo’s specialised SecureTech and PharmaLife solutions will align with SF Airlines’ extensive domestic distribution network, ensuring the efficient movement of electronics, time-sensitive goods, and precision equipment across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Airways, said the partnership connects customers to two of China’s most efficient logistics hubs, linking them to a wider global network. He added that this collaboration will open new trade opportunities and strengthen business connectivity across borders.

Li Sheng, Chairman of SF Airlines, noted that the collaboration will improve operational efficiencies, drive revenue growth, and enhance customer satisfaction. He said the two airlines are combining their strengths to deliver world-class air cargo solutions that meet the changing demands of global logistics.

Through this partnership, Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines aim to set a new benchmark for international trade by moving goods and ideas more efficiently, supporting the growing flow of commerce between Asia and the Middle East.