China expands its air cargo network

A pair of cargo airlines have singed memorandums of understanding (MOU) with Chinese aviation firms, expanding China’s air cargo footprint.

Challenge Group announced the signing of an MOU with China Henan Aviation Co., Ltd., the holding company owning CGO Airport, while Silk Way West Airlines, a cargo airline in the Caspian and Central Asian region, signed an MOU with China Henan Aviation Group.

The agreement for Challenge Group marks a significant step in expanding its footprint in China. It will increase flight frequency, enhance connectivity (RFS) and boost capacity for e-commerce and other commodities.

Currently operating five flights per week, Challenge Group plans to increase this number, further solidifying CGO Airport as a multimodal hub for penetrating the Chinese market  The state-of-the-art CGO dual hub is fully equipped for optimal operations throughout the supply chain, combining highly trained staff with cutting-edge automation tools and line maintenance activity. The hub plays a crucial role in feeding important destinations in and out of China with road feeder service and rail links.

“We are very pleased with this agreement, which aligns with Challenge Group’s expansion plan and corporate values,” said Yossi Shoukroun, CEO of Challenge Group. “This partnership supports our business model based on strategic collaborations and strengthens our position in the global logistics industry.”

For Silk Way West Airlines, the partnership aims to enhance air cargo connectivity and efficiency between Zhengzhou and Baku to build a robust dual-hub cooperation model that spans the Asia-Pacific region and connects Europe, America and Africa.

This year marks Silk Way West Airlines’ inaugural participation at Air Cargo China 2024, showcasing the airline’s dedication to expanding its global footprint and exploring new business opportunities. By joining this prestigious event, Silk Way West Airlines aims to strengthen its presence in the Asian market and foster new partnerships within the international air cargo industry.

Silk Way West Airlines has been operating in the Chinese market for over 10 years, continuously expanding its services and strengthening its network. The MOU with China Henan Aviation Group represents a significant milestone in the airline’s journey, promising enhanced connectivity and new growth opportunities.

The collaboration will leverage the respective strengths of both parties, including strategic locations, extensive route networks and diverse valuable resources. By joining forces, Silk Way West Airlines and China Henan Aviation Group aim to significantly increase the frequency of all-cargo routes between Zhengzhou and Baku. This initiative will position Zhengzhou as a key hub for the Asia-Pacific region and Baku as a central hub for Europe, America, Africa, and other regions.

“We are pleased to partner with China Henan Aviation Group. This collaboration increases our capacity and cargo volume in Zhengzhou and provides convenient and efficient ground support,” said Jenny Zhao, vice-president of APAC at Silk Way West Airlines. “This is a significant step forward in deepening cooperation between our two countries within the Belt and Road Initiative.”