Ethiopian Airlines Launches New Freighter Service Linking China’s Chengdu with Africa

Addis Ababa, August 28, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new freighter service from Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in southwestern China, establishing a direct cargo link between the region and Africa, according to the airline.

The new air link is expected to facilitate cargo movement between southwestern China and African markets and provide fresh impetus to trade and economic exchanges between western China and the continent, the airline said.

The new service adds to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive cargo network, connecting Africa with major commercial centers across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.

The airline’s January 2026 factsheet lists more than 70 cargo destinations worldwide, underscoring the role of its Addis Ababa hub in linking African markets to global supply chains.

Ethiopian Cargo & Logistics Services also operates what the airline describes as Africa’s largest air cargo network, serving more than 145 destinations worldwide through dedicated freighters and passenger aircraft cargo capacity.

The carrier has also expanded digital booking, payment and interlining capabilities to facilitate access to its cargo network.

The airline’s broader international operations have continued to expand across the African continent and multiple regions of the world, further strengthening air links between African markets and major economic centers in Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.

Ethiopian Airlines’ expanding passenger and cargo operations have reinforced Addis Ababa’s position as a major aviation gateway between Africa and global markets.

The airline says it now operates more than 145 international passenger and cargo destinations, including more than 60 African cities, with daily and multiple frequencies across its network.

The carrier reported a 20 percent increase in revenue to 9.1 billion U.S. dollars during the 2025/26 Ethiopian financial year.

It transported 20.7 million passengers during the year, while cargo volumes rose 16 percent to 897,000 metric tonnes, according to figures reported following its latest financial-year performance.

With its expanding passenger and cargo networks, Ethiopian Airlines has become a major conduit for the movement of people, goods and business between Africa and global markets.

Its extensive connectivity also supports intra-African trade and economic integration, including the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while strengthening the continent’s links to global trade, tourism and investment flows.