SolitAir expands China network with Tianjin
The new Dubai–Tianjin freighter service expands SolitAir's China footprint and supports time-sensitive cargo across key trade corridors.
SolitAir has expanded its China network with the launch of a new cargo route connecting its hub at Dubai World Central (DWC) with Tianjin Binhai International Airport (TSN), strengthening its presence in one of the country's largest industrial and logistics hubs.
The inaugural flight carried a VIP cargo shipment, marking the start of operations on the new corridor, which is aimed at supporting the movement of secure, time-sensitive and high-value freight. Tianjin becomes the carrier's third destination in China after Hong Kong and Urumqi.
The addition of the route enhances air cargo connectivity between the UAE and northern China, a region that serves as the principal maritime and aviation gateway for the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei economic cluster. The region contributed 8.5% of China's GDP in 2025 and is home to major manufacturing industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, pharmaceuticals and industrial equipment.
Tianjin is also a key global logistics hub. Its seaport handles more than 23 million TEUs annually, ranking among the world's busiest container ports, while Tianjin Binhai International Airport supports cargo flows for advanced manufacturing and high-value industries. The city is also an increasingly important gateway for trade linked to China's Belt and Road Initiative.
The new service forms part of SolitAir's ongoing network expansion strategy as the airline continues to strengthen cargo connectivity between the Middle East and key manufacturing markets across Asia.
Hamdi Osman, Founder and CEO of SolitAir,
Hamdi Osman, Founder and CEO of SolitAir, said, “China continues to be one of the most important growth markets for global trade and expanding our network to Tianjin reflects our commitment to serving the evolving needs of our customers. Tianjin gives us direct access to one of northern China’s most dynamic manufacturing and logistics hubs while strengthening the $111 billion non-oil trade links between China and the UAE.”
The launch of the Tianjin service builds on SolitAir's growing footprint in China, where the airline already operates flights to Hong Kong and Urumqi. It also follows the carrier's recent expansion into Europe with the introduction of services to Sofia, Bulgaria.
Since commencing operations in October 2024, SolitAir has expanded its network to 56 routes across 33 countries, including 18 destinations in Africa, as it continues to strengthen air cargo connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe.
The airline currently operates a fleet of seven Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs), each capable of carrying up to 20 tonnes of cargo. The aircraft are configured to transport a range of specialised shipments, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, valuables and oversized freight. SolitAir has outlined plans to expand its fleet to 20 aircraft, operating from its cargo hub at Dubai World Central (DWC), Al Maktoum International Airport.
