DB Schenker, one of the world's leading logistics companies, has officially launched its inaugural air cargo route from Ezhou Huahu International Airport to Frankfurt, Germany, marking a significant milestone for cross-border trade between Central China and Europe. The first flight departed on January 7, 2025, ushering in regular air freight operations aimed at enhancing connectivity and efficiency for various industries.
This new cargo route will see weekly flights operated by Etihad Cargo, with flights departing from Ezhou each Tuesday and including a stopover at Abu Dhabi. It is anticipated to handle approximately 5,200 tons of cargo annually, catering to multiple sectors including e-commerce, high-tech electronics, automotive parts, and industrial goods.
Ezhou Huahu International Airport, recognized as Asia’s first dedicated cargo hub, has experienced rapid growth since its inauguration in July 2022. Currently, the airport operates 30 international and 53 domestic cargo routes, boasting the fifth highest cargo throughput ranking in China for 2024. It managed to handle more than 1.2 million tons of goods, showcasing its remarkable development and operational potential.
Strategically located within proximity to major urban agglomerations such as the Yangtze River Delta and the Pearl River Delta, Ezhou Huahu International Airport benefits from a comprehensive multimodal transportation network. This includes three major railway lines, seven highways, and five deep-water ports, all facilitating efficient cargo distribution for businesses relying on international supply chains.
Ramon He, the Senior Vice President and Head of Air Freight at DB Schenker Greater China, emphasized the importance of this new route. He stated, "The launch of the Ezhou-Frankfurt route is a significant measure for DB Schenker to deepen its layout in the Chinese market." He also pointed out how the airport's advanced infrastructure and operational systems make it advantageous for connecting international industrial and supply chains.
Stanislas Brun, the Vice President of Cargo at Etihad Cargo, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Etihad Cargo works closely with DB Schenker to address its capacity needs, ensuring the seamless operation of the Ezhou-Frankfurt route." He highlighted the role of their partnership, leveraging the airport’s strategic location to connect Central China with European markets effectively.
The significance of the Ezhou-Frankfurt air cargo route extends beyond just logistics; it reflects the growing economic collaboration between China and Europe. By connecting these two vibrant commercial hubs, the route aims to support regional development and bolster trade, fine-tuning international supply chains to accommodate the increasing demand from global e-commerce and other industries.
DB Schenker anticipates this route will empower them to provide more efficient and reliable logistics solutions to their customers, promoting seamless trade operations across the continent. The company looks forward to utilizing Ezhou Huahu International Airport as its key air freight hub within Central China, maximizing its capabilities to cater to regional and international market needs.
With its first flight successfully completed, the Ezhou-Frankfurt air cargo route is set to become a cornerstone of logistics between Asia and Europe, offering businesses enhanced connectivity and operational flexibility as they navigate the challenges of global supply chains.