Qantas Freight will officially launch its new direct cargo service between Sydney and Shanghai this Thursday, marking a significant expansion of the airline's presence in the Asia-Pacific freight market. The new route not only improves transportation efficiency but also provides customers with more flexible international logistics solutions.
Fleet Upgrade for Growing Demand
To meet increasing cargo demand, Qantas Freight has introduced an Airbus A330-200 converted freighter for the first time using its own aircraft. The service will operate twice weekly between Sydney and Shanghai, replacing the previously used Boeing 747-400 freighter operated in partnership with Atlas Air. This upgrade significantly enhances supply chain efficiency and service quality between the two cities.
The Qantas Freight fleet currently comprises 10 aircraft, including six converted Airbus A321 narrow-body freighters, two A330-200s, and two Atlas Air-operated 747s. The new route is designed to help exporters across Australia more easily transport goods to Sydney for onward connection via the new Shanghai service.
Expanded Connectivity
According to the new flight schedule, Qantas's route connects two major Chinese cargo hubs while offering extensive transshipment options to key U.S. destinations. The Sydney departure includes a stop in Bangkok, significantly enhancing transport capacity for Thai shippers and ensuring fast, efficient cargo movement.
Igor Kwiatkowski, Executive Manager of Qantas Freight, stated: "As global freight demand to and from Asia continues to grow, we're launching this route to provide customers with more diverse rapid transport solutions." He emphasized that the new service would elevate air freight connectivity between Australia and China, offering customers greater flexibility.
Digital Enhancements
Concurrently, Qantas Freight continues to upgrade its online booking system to create smoother operational experiences for customers. The enhanced platform features faster booking confirmation, specialized cargo handling, real-time tracking, and truck booking options—streamlining freight processing for shipments from the UK and U.S.
Additionally, Qantas Freight is expanding its presence in neutral air cargo markets. Customers can now book shipments between the U.S., UK, and South Africa through the neutral platform CargoAi using Qantas and Jetstar flights. This development reflects the airline's ongoing innovation in international freight operations.
With its continuously expanding network, Qantas Freight is steadily advancing toward becoming a leader in the global air cargo market. The new Sydney-Shanghai direct route not only strengthens freight capacity between Australia and China but also provides the international logistics industry with more flexible and efficient transport solutions, helping global customers meet their rapid and secure shipping needs.