YunExpress has extended its agreement with lessor Atlas Air to include a second Boeing 777-200 freighter, which will be used to meet rising e-commerce demand.

The new aircraft will enter operation under a long-term charter agreement in April and operate six weekly routes between China and the US.

READ: AIA Cargo has won two GSSA contracts

Atlas said the new flight with YunExpress YunExpress’ international logistics network will help it serve the increasing demand for cross-border e-commerce shipping from China.

Wang Zuan, president of YunExpress parent Zongteng Group, said: “Last December, YunExpress, in collaboration with Atlas, launched charter service between Xiamen, China and Miami utilising a 777 freighter, which has been operating with solid performance”.

The signing of this new long-term agreement further deepens and strengthens our strategic partnership.

“Through YunExpress, we aim to meet the growing demand for airfreight capacity between China, Europe and North America.

“Looking ahead, we aim to expand routes and fleet size further to provide customers with more convenient and diverse global transportation options, ensure supply chain resilience, and support the steady development and growth of our customers’ international businesses.”

READ: Air France KLM Martinair Cargo and GTS Group extend SAF collaboration

“We are delighted to expand our strategic and long-term partnership with YunExpress,” said Michael Steen, chief executive of Atlas Air Worldwide.

“Cross-border e-commerce drives significant demand for Atlas’ dedicated large widebody freighter capacity.

“Through our partnership with YunExpress, we are strengthening our position as the preferred supplier of dedicated airfreight capacity to leading players in the e-commerce industry.”