Saudia Cargo, CHAGC sign MoU for global air cargo expansion
The partnership aims to build a robust air cargo network across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, with Zhengzhou and Riyadh as central hubs.
Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation (CHAGC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance air logistics connectivity across multiple regions. The signing ceremony was attended by Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Sun Shougang, Executive Vice-Governor of the Henan Provincial People’s Government, and Zhang Mingachao, Chairman of China Henan Aviation Group. The strategic partnership aims to create a strong air logistics network linking Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, with Zhengzhou and Riyadh positioned as key interconnected hubs, according to an official release from Saudia Cargo.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, covering route development such as the launch and expansion of cargo flights between Zhengzhou and Riyadh. It also introduces a dual hub strategy, positioning both cities as central nodes in a network connecting Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, with the goal of optimising cargo flow and reducing transit times.
"This MoU with CHAGC marks a significant step in Saudia Cargo's strategic expansion and our commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030. By establishing a strong air logistics bridge between Zhengzhou and Riyadh, we will unlock new opportunities for trade, facilitate the growth of e-commerce, and strengthen our position as a leading global cargo carrier. We are confident that this partnership will drive innovation, enhance efficiency, and deliver exceptional value to our customers,” says Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director, Saudia Cargo.
Additionally, the partnership will prioritise cargo and logistics innovation, with a focus on advancing digital cargo operations, supporting cross-border e-commerce, and promoting sustainability initiatives to improve efficiency and minimise environmental impact. The collaboration will also foster airport economic zone cooperation, facilitating the integration of bonded logistics, free trade zones, and airside industries to stimulate trade growth and attract investment. Key components of the agreement include regulatory alignment, technical and financial cooperation, and the exploration of investment opportunities in high-tech and aviation-related sectors in Zhengzhou, the release added.
Zhang Mingchao, Chairman, CHAGC, adds: "Saudi Arabia offers extensive cooperation potential in aviation and the low-altitude economy. With China Henan Aviation Group's progressively integrated aviation industrial chain, we can develop diverse collaborative models. Building on Saudia Cargo's Zhengzhou-Riyadh all-cargo route launch, our newly signed 'Dual Hub' Strategic MoU opens comprehensive strategic cooperation. China Henan Aviation Group will strengthen collaboration with Saudia Cargo to enhance the Zhengzhou-Riyadh 'Air Silk Road' under both nations' civil aviation authorities' guidance. This will strengthen air route support for bilateral trade, also advance cooperation in flight simulation systems, aviation training, aircraft leasing, etc."
