Emirates SkyCargo launches first Central Asia freighter route to Almaty from Dubai
More than 100 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity planned
DUBAI – Emirates SkyCargo is set to strengthen trade links between Dubai and Central Asia with the launch of dedicated weekly freighter services to Almaty International Airport in Kazakhstan.
The new Boeing 777F operation will commence on 16 June 2026, marking the freight division’s first destination in Central Asia. The move is expected to create a new trade corridor connecting the fast-growing region with Emirates SkyCargo’s extensive global network.
Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, has emerged as a major commercial and logistics hub, serving as a key gateway for trade across Central Asia. The introduction of a dedicated freighter service reflects growing demand for cargo connectivity between the region and international markets.
Trade gateway
Operating every Tuesday, the Boeing 777F service will provide more than 100 tonnes of cargo capacity each week. The flights will support the transportation of a wide range of commodities, including electronics, perishables, machinery and consumer goods, enabling faster and more efficient movement of freight through Dubai to destinations worldwide.
According to Emirates SkyCargo, the route will offer businesses in Almaty and neighbouring markets greater access to international supply chains while providing global customers with direct wide-body cargo connectivity into a strategically important economic region.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, said the launch aligns with the carrier’s role as a global trade facilitator and supports efforts to expand connectivity across Central Asia, a region experiencing strong economic growth.
He noted that the service will create new opportunities for businesses to scale international operations while supporting the objectives of the D33 Dubai Economic Agenda, which aims to accelerate foreign trade and reinforce Dubai’s position as a leading global logistics hub.
Fleet expansion
The Almaty launch comes as Emirates SkyCargo continues to expand both its network and freighter fleet. Since March 2026, the carrier has received four new Boeing 777 freighters, with six additional aircraft scheduled for delivery before the end of the year.
By December 2026, Emirates SkyCargo’s dedicated freighter fleet is expected to reach 21 aircraft. Alongside its freighter operations, the carrier also offers extensive bellyhold cargo capacity across Emirates’ passenger network, providing customers with flexible shipping solutions spanning destinations on six continents.