东航首开中东第五航权货运航线

Core Viewpoint - China Eastern Airlines has launched a new all-cargo flight route from Shanghai to Budapest via Riyadh, marking its first fifth-freedom cargo route in the Middle East, aimed at enhancing logistics services and connecting markets in China, the Middle East, and Europe [1] Group 1: Route Details - The new cargo route will operate three flights per week, with a total flight time of approximately 17 hours, utilizing Boeing B777F freighters [1] - The inaugural flight, operated by China Eastern Logistics' China Cargo Airlines, departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport at 2:30 AM and transited through Riyadh before arriving at Budapest International Airport [1] Group 2: Strategic Importance - The addition of Riyadh as a transit point extends the existing Shanghai-Budapest cargo route, creating a new trade corridor connecting China, the Middle East, and Europe [1] - Riyadh's strategic location at the intersection of Asia, Europe, and Africa allows China Eastern to enhance its logistics services in the Middle East and expand its network into key African markets [1] Group 3: Operational Advantages - The fifth-freedom rights permit China Eastern to conduct cargo operations such as loading and unloading in Riyadh, which is expected to improve operational efficiency, optimize costs, and increase revenue [1]