Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, and SF Airlines, a subsidiary of SF Holding, have recently announced their shared commitment to a project that will establish a landmark joint venture, further boosting UAE-China trade ties.
In a meeting at SF Airlines’ headquarters in Shenzhen on September 18, key representatives from both airlines convened to formalize their intention to establish a joint venture, marking an unprecedented milestone in the 40-year history of diplomatic relations between the UAE and China.
“This historic joint venture is a true testament to the robust and growing relationship between the UAE and China,” said Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of Etihad Airways.
Comprehensive logistics solution
The joint venture project builds on the already successful partnership between Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines, which has significantly enhanced connectivity and capacity between China, the UAE, and global markets. The current collaboration has seen both airlines sharing capacity to improve global trade routes, a relationship that has been mutually beneficial for both airlines and their customers.
“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,” added Al Shorafa.
The joint venture project will further boost the two airlines’ cooperation. Beyond capacity sharing, this partnership combines Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines’ strengths to offer a unified, comprehensive logistics solution to customers worldwide.
“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 realizing that vision,” stated Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways.
Neves explained that by aligning the strengths of Etihad Airways and SF Airlines, both carriers will enhance operations and contribute 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,” he added.
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Operations expansion
Key aspects of the joint venture include greater 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.
“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,” noted Wang Wei, chairman of SF Holding.
The collaboration will focus on integrating the customer service of Etihad Cargo with the extensive capacity and reach of SF Airlines, creating a synergy that will significantly boost the potential of UAE-China trade routes.
The next phase of this partnership between Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines will involve finalizing the scope of the collaboration, with updates in the near future and a definitive agreement that the two parties will sign shortly.
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