Photo: Saudia Cargo
Saudia Cargo is looking to capitalise on the growth in e-commerce demand between Asia and Europe with new freighter services.
The new flights will operate twice per week from between Liège Airport (LGG) in Belgium to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) in China.
The airline will also add a weekly freighter flight from LGG to King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
At present, the airline operates a fleet of seven freighters, consisting of Boeing 747s and Boeing 777s.
"This strategic move aims to enhance its global network and support the rapid growth of the e-commerce sector and trade between Asia and Europe via the Kingdom, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030,” the airline said in a press release.
The flights from China are offered in “collaboration with e-commerce platforms, merchants, and logistics providers”.
Marwan Niazi, senior vice president of sales at Saudia Cargo, said: “These new strategic routes represent promising opportunities for our customers, contributing to shaping a new era of global trade between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
"The addition of the Liège and Zhengzhou routes will be a game-changer in our operations. It not only enhances our ability to meet the growing demand in the region but also solidifies our position as a leading global air cargo company.
"This expansion will enable us to provide advanced solutions that support the sustainable growth of our customers and partners, reflecting our ongoing commitment to achieving mutual success.”
Niazi added that the services also support Saudia Arabia's position as a "global logistics centre".
Saudia Cargo added that the direct flight route from LGG to Dammam started on 3 April and increases the total flights operated by the company from Liège to 11 weekly flights.
"This reflects a significant presence for the company in the European continent and highlights its role in transporting shipments that require speed in delivery," the airline added.
The new flights are the second news announcement made by the airline this week. Saudia Cargo has also attained IATA’s CEIV Fresh certification to support its growing perishables business.
The certification confirms the airline’s capability to handle temperature-sensitive perishable goods to IATA’s globally recognised standard.
