Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines have announced a project to establish a first-of-its-kind joint venture to promote economic and trade cooperation and enhance global logistics and connectivity.

The airlines state that the joint venture will combine their strengths to offer a unified logistics solution with a focus on increasing capacity, improving transit times and expanding connectivity to new destinations.

The airlines already share capacity to improve global trade routes, a relationship that has been mutually beneficial for both airlines and their customers. The newly announced joint venture project will take this collaboration to unprecedented heights.

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of Etihad Airways, said: “This historic joint venture is a true testament to the robust and growing relationship between the UAE and China.

“Etihad is excited to embark on this new journey with SF Airlines which will enable both airlines to provide even more connectivity, flexibility and speed to customers for e-commerce and traditional air cargo verticals.”

Key aspects of the joint venture include increased aircraft capacity, improved transit times, interconnected networks and the expanded distribution of SF Express’s international express services. These enhancements will offer SF Airlines and its customers greater flexibility and faster European connections.

Additionally, the partnership will expand the number of frequencies, hubs and destinations served, leading to smoother transitions and more efficient operations.

Antonoaldo Neves, chief executive of Etihad Airways, said: “As the national carrier of the UAE, Etihad Airways is deeply committed to supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision of becoming a global logistics and express hub. This joint venture with SF Airlines is a critical step in realising that vision.

“By aligning our strengths, Etihad Airways and SF Airlines are enhancing operations and contributing to the economic growth and diversification of Abu Dhabi, Ezhou and Shenzhen.

“This partnership will be pivotal in positioning the UAE as a key player in global logistics, benefiting both our nations and the broader market.”

Wang Wei, chairman of SF Holding, said: “This joint venture is a pioneering development in air cargo logistics between China and the UAE. 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.”

The airlines state that the next phase of the partnership will involve finalising the scope of the collaboration, with updates to be provided in the near future and a definitive agreement to be signed soon.

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