East Midlands Airport has welcomed SF Express as its latest cargo airline, adding a new link between the UK and China with four weekly flights. The addition marks the sixth cargo operator to begin services at the airport in the past six months, underlining its growing importance as a logistics hub.
SF Express, China’s largest integrated logistics provider, will operate flights from Ezhou Huahu International Airport, a purpose-built cargo hub in Hubei province. The route connects two key inland freight centres: Ezhou, which serves major Chinese cities such as Huanggang and Huangshi, and East Midlands Airport, which supports the UK’s manufacturing heartland across Nottingham, Derby, and Leicester.
The service was launched with a chartered One Air aircraft already in operation between the two regions. It follows Etihad Cargo’s recent move to add regular flights from the UAE, further cementing East Midlands Airport’s role as a 24/7 gateway for global freight.
East Midlands Airport’s Commercial Director, Adam Andrews, said the airport’s rapid expansion reflects its growing global reputation. “East Midlands Airport has established itself as the foremost cargo airport in the UK and these new airlines show that we have really put ourselves on the radar of the global cargo community. As one of the major players in the sector, we’re delighted to welcome SF Express to the airport and look forward to further success as we move ahead with our long-term growth plans.”
Fang Wenjian, Chairman of the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK, said the new service will deepen international trade ties. “The launch of SF Express flights between Ezhou and East Midlands will further facilitate trade, support businesses on both sides, and contribute to a more resilient global supply chain. It reflects the strong momentum of practical cooperation between our two countries and demonstrates the vital role that logistics plays in connecting regional economies. We believe this new route marks another milestone in China–UK business connectivity.”
Since May, six new airlines — Central Airlines, Atlas Air, Ethiopian Cargo, Saudia Cargo, Etihad Cargo and now SF Express — have added routes through East Midlands Airport. The expansion supports the airport’s long-term plan to boost air freight capacity and strengthen UK trade links with Asia and the Middle East.
