JD Logistics adds Bangkok freighter flights

JD Logistics – the transport arm of Chinese e-commerce platform JD.com – is targeting demand to and from Thailand with the launch of a new all-cargo charter flight between Shenzhen and Bangkok.

The service was launched on May 28 and although the logistics company did not mention the carrier operating the service or aircraft being used, online images appear to suggest the service is being operated by a Longhao Airlines B737-800 freighter.

“Open to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both countries, the freight-dedicated route will facilitate delivery of goods from mainland China to customers in Thailand and vice versa within 48 hours,” the company said.

“Running between Shenzhen Bao’an Airport and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport three times a week with same-day return, this end-to-end fully self-operated and full-link transportation route will not only greatly increase the speed of cross-border freight, but also provide vigorous support for the development of cross-border business through both Thai and Chinese e-commerce channels, including JD.com and JD’s joint venture in Thailand, JD Central (JDC),” it added.

From China, JD Logistics said it expected goods such as daily necessities, small household appliances, consumer electronics and other e-commerce goods to be transported.

In the opposite direction, volumes will comprise fresh produce, supplemented by industrial products such as auto parts.

In the past year, China has further opened its market to foreign goods by implementing policies with an aim to facilitate robust cross-border trade, the company added.

JD Logistics shares began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange today. Reports say that the company’s share price initially surged before dropping back behind expectations.

Last year, JD.com added dedicated all-cargo operation from Shenzhen to Wuxi through a partnership with Zhejiang Loong Airlines.