SolitAir launches Tianjin cargo route, expanding China network from Dubai

Tourism

SolitAir launches Tianjin cargo route, expanding China network from Dubai

SolitAir, the UAE's dedicated business-to-business (B2B) airport-to-airport cargo airline, has launched a new freight route connecting Dubai World Central (DWC) with Tianjin Binhai International Airport (TSN), further expanding its operations in China.

The new service follows the airline's successful cargo operations to Hong Kong and Urumqi, strengthening trade links between the UAE, China and key international markets.

The inaugural flight transported a VIP cargo shipment, highlighting the airline's focus on providing secure, reliable and time-sensitive logistics solutions for high-value cargo.

Located in northern China, Tianjin is one of the country's largest industrial and logistics centres and serves as the primary maritime and aviation gateway for the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei economic region, which contributed approximately 8.5% of China's GDP in 2025.

The city is home to Tianjin Port, one of the world's busiest container ports, handling more than 23 million TEUs annually, while Tianjin Binhai International Airport supports air cargo operations for industries including automotive, aerospace, electronics, pharmaceuticals and high-value industrial manufacturing.

The city also plays an increasingly significant role in facilitating international trade under China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Hamdi Osman, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of SolitAir, said the launch reflects the airline's commitment to supporting growing trade demand between the UAE and China.

"China continues to be one of the most important growth markets for global trade, and expanding our network to Tianjin reflects our commitment to serving the evolving needs of our customers. Tianjin gives us direct access to one of northern China's most dynamic manufacturing and logistics hubs while strengthening the US$111 billion non-oil trade links between China and the UAE," he said.

The Tianjin service also follows SolitAir's recent expansion into Europe with the launch of its first route to Sofia, Bulgaria, as the airline continues to broaden its international network.

Since commencing operations in October 2024, SolitAir has expanded to 56 routes across 33 countries, including an 18-city network in Africa, connecting major trade corridors across Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe.

The airline currently operates a fleet of seven Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF), each capable of carrying up to 20 tonnes of cargo. The aircraft are designed to transport a wide range of freight, including dangerous goods, pharmaceuticals, perishables, valuable cargo and oversized shipments.

SolitAir plans to expand its fleet to 20 aircraft, operating from its 20,440-square-metre cargo hub at Dubai World Central (DWC), Al Maktoum International Airport, as it continues to strengthen Dubai's position as a global logistics and air cargo hub.