Atlas Air Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc., announced the expansion of its strategic partnership with YunExpress, a subsidiary of Zongteng Group, by adding a second Boeing 777-200 freighter under a long-term charter agreement.

The second 777 freighter will enter service for YunExpress in April and operate six weekly routes between China and the United States.

Atlas Air said the new flying will enhance YunExpress' international logistics network and help it serve the increasing demand for cross-border e-Commerce shipping from China.

"We are delighted to expand our strategic and long-term partnership with YunExpress," said Michael Steen, chief executive officer of Atlas Air Worldwide.

He noted that cross-border e-commerce is driving significant demand for Atlas' dedicated large widebody freighter capacity.

"Through our partnership with YunExpress, we are strengthening our position as the preferred supplier of dedicated airfreight capacity to leading players in the e-commerce industry. Atlas has unmatched global operating capabilities and high-quality solutions that power our customers’ global supply chains," Steen further said.

Wang Zuan, president of Zongteng Group, noted that last December, YunExpress, in collaboration with Atlas, launched a charter service between Xiamen, China and Miami utilizing a 777 freighter, which has been operating with solid performance.

"The signing of this new long-term agreement further deepens and strengthens the strategic partnership between us. Through YunExpress, we aim to meet the growing demand for airfreight capacity between China, Europe and North America," he said.

"Looking ahead, we aim to further expand routes and fleet size to provide customers with more convenient and diverse global transportation options, ensure supply chain resilience, and support the steady development and growth of our customers’ international businesses," Zuan added.