Mainland China's first polar air freight route is officially operating.

date
22/04/2026
Reporters learned from China Southern Airlines that on April 22, the CZ2544 cargo flight, loaded with goods, flew from New York to Guangzhou. This is the first polar cargo route in mainland China, which will further enhance the two-way radiation capacity of Guangzhou International Aviation Logistics Hub and provide solid support for building a green and efficient aviation logistics system. As the shortest air passage connecting China and North America, the polar route makes use of the geometric characteristics of the Earth's surface to significantly reduce the flying distance of the trans-Pacific route. The North America to Guangzhou polar cargo route created by China Southern Airlines Logistics is operated by the Boeing 777F freighter with ultra-long range flying capability. This aircraft can carry up to 105 tons of cargo, effectively meeting the transportation needs of bulk cross-border goods. The route crosses the Arctic region, avoiding the impact of high-altitude jet streams on the traditional Pacific routes, reducing flying time by about 40 minutes compared to traditional routes, and significantly reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.