Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline, has launched a weekly freighter service to Narita International Airport (NRT).
This expansion increases the airline’s freighter network to 38 destinations. It also establishes the first direct, scheduled freighter link between Narita and the Middle East.
The new service will offer faster and more flexible shipping options for businesses. Starting May 24, 2025, flight EK9413 will operate weekly. It arrives at Narita on Saturdays at 01:00 UTC and departs for Dubai World Central at 03:00 UTC.
Strengthening Ties with Japan’s Market
Japan’s manufacturing sector is diverse and globally respected. Emirates SkyCargo has prioritized this market for years. It currently operates a twice-weekly freighter flights to Kansai International Airport (KIX).
The new Narita service, starting from 24 May, adds 100 tonnes of cargo capacity in each direction. This boost supports the transport of key goods like automobile parts, machinery components, semiconductor materials, and advanced pharmaceuticals.
These products will move quickly and reliably through Emirates’ versatile product portfolio.
Narita International Airport is Japan’s largest cargo hub by value. With the “New Narita Airport” Development Plan, it aims to become the region’s leading cargo center by 2030.
Emirates SkyCargo’s new service aligns with this growth, offering businesses enhanced access to global markets.
Meeting Growing Demand
Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President, explained the strategic plan behind the expansion. “Growing our freighter network is a core part of our 10-year plan,” Abbas said. “With new Boeing 777 freighters joining our fleet, we can serve more markets with greater capacity.”
Narita’s demand for Emirates’ services has surged, especially for pharmaceuticals and consumer electronics. These goods are typically carried in the belly hold of daily passenger flights.
However, larger or irregularly shaped items, like machinery parts, were previously routed through Kansai. The new freighter service changes that. It provides direct connectivity to Dubai, streamlining logistics for global customers and supporting Emirates’ growth in Japan.
A Robust East Asian Network
Emirates SkyCargo operates extensively in East and Southeast Asia. The airline runs 57 weekly freighter flights across four destinations.
Additionally, it offers over 290 weekly passenger flights, providing unmatched capacity in the region. East Asia is one of Emirates’ busiest markets, and further growth is planned.
New passenger routes from Dubai to Siem Reap (Cambodia), Da Nang (Vietnam), and Shenzhen (China) will open soon, enhancing connectivity.
Conclusion
The Narita freighter service strengthens Emirates SkyCargo’s position in Japan. It supports the country’s manufacturing and export industries while meeting rising global demand.
By connecting Tokyo Narita Airport directly to the Middle East, Emirates enables businesses to ship goods faster and more efficiently. This move also aligns with Narita’s ambition to be a top cargo hub.
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