Etihad Cargo Boosts Operations with Over 300 Flights from Ezhou to Abu Dhabi
Etihad Cargo and SF Airlines operate seven weekly flights from Ezhou to Abu Dhabi, ensuring seamless connections to global markets and bolstering capabilities for specialized cargo, including pharmaceuticals, with Ezhou Huahu Airport’s recent IATA CEIV Pharma certification.
Etihad Cargo, the logistics division of Etihad Airways, has operated 329 scheduled and charter flights from Ezhou Huahu Airport to Zayed International Airport, further establishing its reputation as a trusted partner for industries such as pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and perishables
Since its inaugural flight to Ezhou Huahu Airport on August 18, 2023, making it the first international airline to do so, Etihad Cargo has reinforced its commitment to enhancing connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Ezhou Huahu Airport, Asia’s first dedicated freighter hub, has served as a strategic base for Etihad Cargo, enabling the transport of over 18,700 tonnes of export cargo and more than 400 tonnes of imports through Abu Dhabi since 2023. The addition of a sixth weekly scheduled flight in July 2024, followed by a seventh in 2025, has enhanced the carrier’s network, ensuring efficient connections to key global markets. The recent IATA CEIV Pharma certification for the airport’s ground handling services further strengthens its ability to support specialized cargo, especially within the pharmaceutical sector.
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: “As the first international carrier to operate from Ezhou, Etihad Cargo is proud to have played a pivotal role in demonstrating the airport’s superior capabilities and strategic importance within just one year of operations. Etihad Cargo’s customers have expressed high satisfaction with the reliability and efficiency of the service, validating the carrier’s decision to partner with Ezhou and recognizing its potential as a global cargo hub. Ezhou Huahu Airport’s advanced infrastructure has impressed exporters and local customers alike, especially in facilitating seamless imports, while Etihad Cargo’s efforts to showcase Ezhou’s connectivity and capabilities to exporters in Europe and beyond are paving the way for even greater opportunities.”
Ezhou Huahu Airport, with its advanced facilities and strategic location, has emerged as a key logistics hub, enabling the seamless movement of goods across Asia and beyond. Its extensive network of 36 international cargo routes, combined with Etihad Cargo’s global connectivity through Abu Dhabi, has created significant value for customers seeking efficient and reliable cargo solutions. The collaborative efforts of partners, stakeholders, and local authorities have been essential in driving the success of Etihad Cargo’s operations in the region.
Also Read: DB Schenker Launches Ezhou-Frankfurt Air Cargo Route.
Li Wei, Deputy General Manager of Ezhou Huahu International Airport, said: “Ezhou Huahu International Airport is located in central China, boasting a strategic geographical advantage and solid foundational conditions. A domestic hub-and-spoke route network is already established, while international logistics channels are rapidly taking shape. Port functionalities are continuously improving, and operational capabilities are steadily advancing. In 2024, the airport’s cargo and mail throughput are projected to rank fifth nationwide, with 36 international cargo routes already operational. Ezhou Huahu International Airport regards Etihad Cargo as a key strategic partner and supports the launch of more cargo routes at the airport, achieving even greater milestones in the future.”
Etihad Cargo’s operations in Ezhou are a key component of the carrier’s extensive network in Greater China, which will grow to 23 weekly freighters and 25 weekly passenger flights in 2025.
