Shenzhen's Jade Cargo International and the City of Chengdu have entered into an agreement to establish an air cargo hub for western China as part of official policy to build a regional centre for hi-tech and other export oriented companies, the Shipping Gazette informs.

The agreement involves the launch of a freighter service between Chengdu and Europe via the Middle East. Jade will operate B747-400 extended range freighters thrice weekly from Chengdu to Vienna, Amsterdam, Dubai and back again.

"As the leading economically developed city in western China, Chengdu has a significant potential in air cargo," said Jade Cargo CEO Kay Kratky. "Jade Cargo is the first globally operating all cargo airline opening direct flights between Chengdu and European centres. We are very confident about the prospects in this area."

Source: Transportweekly