In the global economic arena, efficient connectivity between international markets has become a strategic priority for industries worldwide. A significant development in this regard occurred on March 6 when a Boeing 767-300 freighter operated by SF Airlines successfully launched from Ezhou Huahu International Airport in Hubei Province, marking the inauguration of the "Ezhou-Bengaluru" international air cargo route.
This new route represents the fourth direct freight connection between the Chinese airport and India, establishing another vital trade corridor between the two economic powerhouses. Operating with weekly flights, the route primarily transports electronics and general merchandise, with an estimated annual capacity exceeding 5,000 metric tons of cargo between Hubei and Bengaluru.
Industry analysts anticipate that this expansion will significantly enhance air logistics channels between China and India, creating broader prospects for bilateral economic cooperation. The new connection complements Ezhou Huahu Airport's existing Indian network, which already includes direct cargo routes to Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata, forming a comprehensive freight network covering northern, southern, and eastern India.
With this latest addition, the airport now operates 16 weekly international cargo flights to India, providing approximately 1,500 metric tons of weekly air freight capacity. This infrastructure development substantially strengthens economic and trade exchanges between China's central regions and South Asian markets.
Recent operational statistics demonstrate Ezhou Huahu Airport's growing significance in global trade networks. During the first two months of 2023, the airport handled over 200,000 metric tons of cargo and mail, representing a remarkable 107.2% year-on-year increase. These figures underscore both Hubei Province's expanding role in international commerce and the continuous modernization of its aviation logistics capabilities.