Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines have expanded their partnership with a new Joint Business Agreement (JBA) that significantly boosts cargo capacity between Abu Dhabi and two of China’s busiest logistics hubs – Shenzhen and Ezhou.

Under the agreement, both carriers will jointly market and integrate their airfreight services, aligning service standards and pricing.

The combined network now offers nine weekly freighter services to Shenzhen and seven to Ezhou – Asia’s first dedicated cargo airport – strengthening connectivity between China, the Middle East and beyond.

Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, which operates China’s first 24-hour international cargo station, will play a key role in ensuring faster turnaround times and improved customer experience.

Meanwhile, Ezhou Huahu Airport, located in Hubei Province, will enhance access to China’s extensive domestic network and growing international trade lanes.

Signed in June by Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, and Li Sheng, chairman of SF Airlines, the JBA will support high-growth sectors such as cross-border e-commerce and pharmaceuticals.

Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech and PharmaLife products will be integrated with SF Airlines’ domestic distribution network to provide seamless handling of electronics, time-critical shipments and precision equipment.

“Shenzhen and Ezhou represent two of China’s most active and efficient logistics hubs,” said Stanislas Brun, chief cargo officer of Etihad Airways. “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 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.”

Through this partnership, Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines aim to redefine air freight cooperation between China and the Middle East, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and reliability in global trade.

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