Etihad and SF Airlines Launch Cargo Joint Venture

Etihad Airways and China’s SF Airlines have signed a landmark agreement to form a joint air cargo business, aiming to integrate and expand their airfreight operations across global markets. The partnership will operate on a metal-neutral basis, combining the strengths of both carriers to create a unified cargo network with improved capacity, pricing, and efficiency.

Etihad Cargo, the airfreight arm of Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, brings to the table a fleet of five Boeing 777 freighters and access to bellyhold capacity on its global passenger services that cover over 100 destinations. The carrier also has 10 Airbus A350 freighters on order, which are expected to further enhance its long-haul cargo capabilities.

SF Airlines, a subsidiary of Chinese logistics giant SF Express, operates one of the largest cargo fleets in China, with 90 Boeing freighters including 747Fs, 737s, and 757s. Its network spans over 100 global destinations and is instrumental in supporting China’s fast-growing e-commerce and logistics sectors.

Together, the two airlines plan to offer a shared network that streamlines cargo transport across key global trade routes. The venture will involve coordinated pricing, joint service standards, strategic route allocation, and unified sales strategies, enabling both partners to enhance competitiveness and improve customer service.

Priority sectors for the joint business include the transport of high-value electronics, sensitive machinery, and temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, aligning with growing global demand for fast, secure logistics in these areas.

The move comes amid surging demand for cross-border e-commerce and time-critical shipments, which both carriers cited as key factors driving the agreement. The joint venture also reflects broader trends in the logistics industry, where airline partnerships are being used to scale operations and expand market reach efficiently.

Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves said the deal enhances Etihad’s cargo offering and operational efficiency. SF Airlines Chairman Li Sheng added that the partnership is a milestone for SF Airlines as it continues its international expansion.

No specific timeline has been announced for when the joint venture will become operational.

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