SF Airlines' Fleet Grows to Sixty Aircraft

On July 19, 2020, SF Airlines welcomed its 60th freighter, a B757-200F with registration number B-20EF, marking a new milestone in the carrier's development. This second aircraft added in 2020 becomes the 33rd B757-200F in SF's owned fleet, providing core support for enhancing air cargo capabilities and deepening participation in global supply chain development.

图1：顺丰航空机队规模增长至60架（摄影/褚文铭）

Fleet Development Timeline

2009: Successful maiden flight

2012: Fleet expanded to 10 aircraft

2016: First B767-300BCF entered service; fleet reached 30 aircraft

2017: Fleet grew to 40 aircraft

2018: First B747-400ERF commenced operations; fleet exceeded 50 aircraft

2020: Fleet achieved 60 aircraft

图2：顺丰航空全货机机队构成

As the air cargo subsidiary of SF Express, SF Airlines holds distinction as China's first private express carrier and currently the nation's largest cargo airline. Over its decade of operations, the 60-strong fleet has established a cargo network "reaching Europe, covering Asia, and serving nationwide".

Initially focused on providing efficient express air transport for SF's ground network, the carrier has progressively expanded its business scope through fleet growth and route optimization. Recent years have seen specialized charter services including seasonal "fruit charters" in summer, "hairy crab charters" in autumn, "beef/lamb charters" in winter, and customized solutions supporting Chinese brands' global expansion - leveraging freighter operations' reliability for time-sensitive shipments like fresh produce, pharmaceuticals and electronics.

When COVID-19 struck in early 2020, SF's industry-leading freighter fleet became instrumental in stabilizing supply chains and delivering critical medical supplies. The self-contained freighter operations enabled rapid response - launching China's first relief flight to Wuhan within 24 hours and sustaining months of epidemic response missions while supporting economic recovery and international aid transport.

图3：2020年初，顺丰航空包括B757-200F、B747-400ERF在内的多个机型悉数投入国内、国际防疫物资及复工复产物资运输（摄影/Josip Škof (Zagreb Airport）

With peak season approaching in the second half-year, the 60th aircraft's deployment will enhance operational scale, facilitate route optimization, and strengthen service capabilities. The July 15 CAAC policy supporting Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development, particularly its emphasis on "building specialized air logistics systems", guides SF Airlines to further develop its Shenzhen hub and maximize its 60-freighter potential for regional logistics advancement.

The pandemic has highlighted the strategic importance of self-sufficient international supply chains, where freighter capacity proves fundamental for global network connectivity and emergency response capabilities. As China's premier cargo carrier, SF Airlines will leverage its 60-strong fleet as a springboard to play greater roles in national logistics systems under the Belt and Road framework, capitalizing on existing network, technological and fleet advantages.

A decade of flight with sixty wings aloft - yet the original mission remains. SF Airlines continues expanding its fleet and service capabilities, striving to become the most trusted air cargo partner.