SF Express, Asia’s largest integrated logistics provider, has launched a new partnership with UK-based freighter specialist AIR ONE to accelerate cross-border deliveries between China and the UK.

Under a one-year charter agreement, four Boeing 747-400BDSF freighter flights per week now connect SF’s central China hub in Ezhou with East Midlands Airport (EMA) – the UK’s primary cargo gateway for the Midlands region – supporting faster nationwide distribution.

The new route marks SF’s first all-cargo service to the UK and represents a key step in the company’s European network expansion.

The inaugural flight departed from Ezhou Huahu International Airport (EHU) on November 2, with the new link expected to reduce total transit times between China and the UK to just four days.

The route will support rising trade volumes and the growing demand for rapid logistics across sectors including cross-border e-commerce, high-end manufacturing and cold chain goods.

Mark Middleton, head of charters at AIR ONE, said: “This agreement reflects SF’s trust in our operational standards and strategic access to the UK market. As the leading UK-based widebody freighter operator, our goal is to continue developing strong partnerships that support cross-border trade and create sustainable logistics bridges between Asia and Europe.”

Peter Huang, head of international air freight at SF International Business Center, said: “The launch of the new route between Ezhou and East Midlands is a crucial step in SF’s global network deployment. Our in-depth partnership with AIR ONE not only shortens the delivery time of cross-border logistics between China and the UK to four days, but also empowers industries such as cross-border e-commerce, high-end manufacturing, and fresh cold chain with an efficient and stable airfreight channel.”

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