Saudia Cargo Launches Direct Riyadh–Melbourne Freighter Service
- Jul 27
- 1 min read
Saudia Cargo has officially launched a new scheduled cargo route between Riyadh and Melbourne, marking the first direct air freight connection between Saudi Arabia and Australia. The inaugural flight departed on 25 July and represents a major step in strengthening trade and logistics ties between the two countries.
The new service is operated by a Boeing 747-400 freighter with a payload capacity of more than 100 tonnes. Thanks to its nose-loading capability, the aircraft can efficiently transport heavy machinery, oversized equipment, industrial cargo, perishables, pharmaceuticals, and other high-value shipments.
According to Saudia Cargo, the Melbourne route is part of its strategy to expand global connectivity, support Saudi exports, and strengthen the Kingdom's position as an international logistics hub under Saudi Vision 2030. The carrier is working closely with the General Authority for Foreign Trade (GAFT) and the Saudi Export Development Authority to create new export opportunities and improve market access.
Australia has become an increasingly important trading partner for Saudi Arabia, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, mining, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing. The new direct connection is expected to reduce transit times, improve supply chain reliability, and facilitate the movement of time-sensitive and high-value cargo between the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region.
With the launch of the Melbourne service, Saudia Cargo continues to expand its international network in response to growing global demand for air freight. The airline expects the new route to enhance bilateral trade while offering exporters and freight forwarders faster, more efficient access to key markets across Australia and beyond.
Image source: aircargonews.net
