SF Express partners with AIR ONE to launch China–UK cargo route, adding capacity and reducing delivery times to 4 days.
In a major boost to global air cargo connectivity, SF Express, Asia’s largest integrated logistics service provider, has partnered with freighter specialist AIR ONE to launch a new cross-border cargo route between China and the United Kingdom. Under a one-year charter agreement, four Boeing 747-400BDSF freighter flights per week now operate between Ezhou Huahu International Airport (EHU) in central China and the East Midlands Airport (EMA), the UK’s primary cargo hub.
The inaugural flight on 2 November 2025 marked SF Express’s first dedicated all-cargo service to the UK. The new route fills a crucial capacity gap, significantly reducing end-to-end logistics time between China and the UK to just four days, supporting businesses handling time-sensitive shipments, cross-border e-commerce, high-end manufacturing cargo, and fresh cold chain products.
“We are honoured to have been chosen by SF as their partner for this landmark route,” said Mark Middleton, Head of Charters at AIR ONE. “This agreement reflects SF’s trust in our operational standards and strategic access to the UK market.”
According to Peter Huang, Head of International Air Freight at SF International, the partnership strengthens SF’s global network and provides a stable, intelligent, and sustainable logistics channel. “Our collaboration not only shortens delivery time between China and the UK, it also empowers industries that rely on fast, reliable airfreight.”
The service reinforces AIR ONE’s ambition to expand widebody freighter capacity between Asia and Europe, enabling smoother trade flows. With 11 Boeing 747Fs and growing fleet strength, AIR ONE continues to position itself as a key facilitator of UK-Asia cargo growth.
SF, founded in China, is now the fourth-largest logistics service provider globally, offering tailored supply chain solutions covering transportation, customs clearance, delivery, overseas warehousing, and system integration. The new corridor adds momentum to its expanding European footprint.
As global trade rebounds and cross-border e-commerce accelerates, this new route establishes a faster, more reliable logistics bridge, strengthening regional supply chains and unlocking new opportunities for businesses across industries.
Source: Media Release
