All Nippon Airways (ANA) will operate cargo freighters connecting Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) and Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT) for two round-trip flights starting June.
In a statement, Japan's largest airline said a Boeing 767 freighter with a maximum load capacity of roughly 50 tons has been selected for the route.
Increased cargo demand, cross-border trade
ANA said it is operating the freighters in response to increased demand for transportation of cargo with the growth of cross-border e-commerce, and in addition aims to further support the global supply chain network by responding to a broad range of demand for transporting cargo such as electronic devices to North America and Europe.
"ANA places the same emphasis on superior customer service for our cargo flights that we do on flights transporting passengers. We understand that air transportation represents a vital link in the global supply chain, and it is encouraging to watch our network grow as the economy begins to recover," said Toshiaki Toyama, executive vice president of ANA and President of ANA Cargo Inc.
"Hangzhou represents a vital industrial hub, and we are excited to offer a direct link between the city and the Japanese market."
Flight schedule:
ANA noted that while adjusting its services to meet the changing market conditions and strong demand for cargo, ANA will also operate more than 2,000 cargo flights using freighter and passenger aircraft in June.
The Japanese carrier said it is committed to using its fleet of two Boeing 777 freighters and nine Boeing 767 freighters to meet demand and facilitate international commerce.
Over the past year, ANA's cargo operations have helped maintain global supply chains.
