Gulf airlines expand cargo fleets as Saudi logistics hub plan accelerates

Saudia Cargo disclosed a strategy to double its aircraft inventory by introducing four Boeing 777-200F freighters over a period exceeding two years, aligning with Saudi Arabia's drive to position the kingdom as a logistics gateway linking three continents. The new jets will handle heavy and temperature-sensitive shipments on nonstop long-haul routes, according to a company executive. In the broader Gulf region, Emirates SkyCargo completed its inaugural commercial conversion of a Boeing 777-300 from passenger to freighter, moving more than 100 tons from Hong Kong to Dubai, and has contracted Israel Aerospace Industries for at least three further conversions.

Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways are similarly expanding freight capabilities through dedicated freighters and increased belly capacity. Despite the added capacity, IATA data show cargo traffic rose only 1.7% year-on-year in July, lagging behind a 4.0% capacity increase, while volumes on vital Europe-Asia corridors to the Middle East have declined for five straight months.