Ethiopian Airlines Launches New Cargo Charter Linking Macao and Madrid, Boosting China-Europe Trade

By Maria Kalamatas | Published on April 4, 2025

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest air cargo carrier, has launched a new cargo charter route connecting Macao International Airport in China with Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport in Spain, further expanding its footprint in the booming China-Europe logistics corridor.

The inaugural flight — operated by a Boeing 777 Freighter — departed this morning, according to reports from China’s Xinhua News Agency, marking a strategic expansion of Ethiopian’s cargo services in southern China and strengthening the airline’s e-commerce and logistics ties with Europe.

Strengthening the China-Europe Logistics Bridge

The twice-weekly route is set to transport a wide range of export goods including toys, electronics, small appliances, furniture, auto parts, cosmetics, and clothing. Ethiopian Airlines estimates the new service could bring over 20,000 tons of cross-border cargo throughput annually through Macao International Airport.

The launch signals not only increased airfreight capacity between southern China and Europe, but also greater integration with e-commerce supply chains in the Greater Bay Area — a fast-growing trade hub encompassing Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao.

“This route enhances our partnership with Chinese logistics players and supports fast, reliable air transport solutions for global e-commerce shipments,” said Aman Wole Gurmu, Ethiopian Airlines’ Country Director for China. “We are committed to deepening our engagement in the region and expanding our global cargo connectivity.”

Expanding Chinese Cargo Operations

Macao is the latest addition to Ethiopian Airlines’ growing list of Chinese cargo destinations. The airline already operates freighter routes from Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, with Macao positioned to capture high-value, time-sensitive goods for the European market.

In recent months, Ethiopian Airlines Group has actively strengthened its logistics partnerships in China. In December, it signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Xiamen Iport Group and a memorandum of understanding with China Henan Aviation Group (CHAG) — moves that pave the way for more integrated air cargo operations and infrastructure sharing.

A Freighter Fleet Built for Growth

To support this expansion, Ethiopian Cargo has been investing heavily in fleet development. In January, it took delivery of its 11th Boeing 777 Freighter, one of the most fuel-efficient and high-capacity cargo aircraft on the market. According to Planespotters, the airline’s freighter fleet now includes:

• 11 Boeing 777Fs

• 4 converted Boeing 737-800Fs

• 3 converted Boeing 767-300Fs

• 2 newbuild 767-300Fs (delivered in December)

This diverse fleet enables Ethiopian Airlines to serve over 70 dedicated cargo destinations and more than 140 passenger routes, spanning Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Africa’s Logistics Powerhouse Eyes Global Leadership

Already one of the world’s fastest-growing air cargo carriers, Ethiopian Airlines continues to position itself as a key connector between Asia, Africa, and Europe. With its modern fleet, strategic alliances in China, and growing global demand for cross-border e-commerce, the airline is capitalising on shifting trade flows and emerging supply chain corridors.

The new Macao–Madrid service underscores Ethiopian’s vision: to not only be Africa’s leading cargo carrier, but a globally integrated logistics force, ready to serve the evolving needs of international trade.

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