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Etihad Airways announces a significant expansion of its cargo operations in China, introducing the first of five new passenger routes and 28 additional weekly flights from Abu Dhabi to Shanghai Pudong (PVG) starting October 1, 2026. This expansion is a major step towards strengthening cargo connections between the UAE and China.
The new connections from Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) to Guangzhou (CAN) and Hangzhou (HGH), both on March 4, 2027, Chengdu (TFU) on March 5, 2027, and Shenzhen (SZX) on March 7, 2027, will increase the total number of weekly cargo flights to mainland China to 35. This significantly enhances logistics and the transport of goods between the two countries.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner operated by Etihad for these routes offers an underfloor cargo capacity of between 14 and 16 tons, ensuring efficient handling of goods. This expansion reflects the growing importance of the UAE-China corridor for global trade and supply chains.
The expansion is part of an existing joint venture with China Eastern Airlines, which provides coordinated services at key hubs. China Eastern currently operates routes between Shanghai, Kunming, and Xi’an as well as the UAE. Additionally, the air freight connection is strengthened through the joint venture with SF Airlines, which supports the transport of goods along key trade routes between China and global markets.
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Airways, commented on the new routes: “The relationships between the UAE and China continue to flourish. Today’s announcement reflects the ongoing strength and growing potential of our collaboration.” Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, emphasized the strategic significance of China for the company’s growth and the creation of new opportunities for cargo, business, and tourism.
The five new destinations each play an important role in China’s economic and cultural landscape. Shanghai Pudong is regarded as a global financial center and a major international cargo hub, while Guangzhou serves as a key location for manufacturing and trade in southern China. Chengdu is a rapidly growing innovation and technology center in the west of the country, Hangzhou is a leading center for digital economy and e-commerce, and Shenzhen is seen as a global technology hub and an important export market.
