JD.com launches own cargo airline

Chinese e-Commerce giant JD.com has announced that it's logistics arm, JD Logistics, is starting up its own dedicated cargo airline. The move comes as the company wants to reduce its reliance on third parties and increase control of shipping its goods around the globe. Although the plans were under discussion for years, the Corona-pandemic and subsquent disruption of transport has accelerated the plans.

Currently, the airline is making use of capacity from airlines like Hainan Airlines and Loong Air. By 2030, however, JD Logistics, wants to have its own fleet of no less than 100 aircraft. It's first aircraft will be B737-800BCF B-221L (32687), which is almost ready for delivery and will be leased from GECAS.

Photo by JD.com.