Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport ranked 13th in China in terms of cargo volume in 2022, up two places from 2021, according to the Qingdao Transportation Bureau.

The international freight center of Qingdao airport [Photo/Guanhai News]

Air freight, integrating transportation, warehousing, distribution and other services, is an important support for the modern industrial system. Hub airports play a fundamental role in the development of aviation logistics, say industry experts.

In 2022, the civil aviation industry was hit hard by multiple adverse factors such as frequent outbreaks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeking opportunities in crisis, Qingdao airport has given full play to its functions as a cargo port, and has made intense efforts to develop international cargo routes, introduce industry giants, stimulate market potential, and create a win-win ecosystem.

By the end of November 2022, Qingdao airport had opened 14 international cargo air routes.

In April and June 2022, Qingdao airport opened all-cargo air routes to Los Angeles and Chicago, which enhanced economic and trade exchanges between Qingdao and the United States.

A converted cargo charter flight to Bournemouth, United Kingdom, docks at Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport. [Photo/Guanhai News]

In September 2022, Qingdao airport opened a cargo route to Ostrava, Czech Republic, which filled the gap of its regular cargo routes to Central and Eastern Europe and helped deepen the city's economic and trade exchanges and cooperation with countries in that region.

From January to November in 2022, the cargo throughput of Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport reached 203,000 metric tons, surpassing Xi'an Xianyang International Airport and the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and jumping to 13th in the country.