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From Routes to Networks: Eurasia Evolves

  • Apr 22
  • 2 min read

🚨 Market Signal

Eurasian logistics is entering a phase where new air routes, fixed-schedule rail services, and expanding cargo infrastructure are actively reshaping how freight moves between China, Europe, and Central Asia.


New China–Europe air connections via Xi’an, Beijing Daxing, and Gulf hubs are increasing long-haul capacity and shifting market share toward Asian carriers. At the same time, the launch of fixed-schedule rail services from Beijing to Central Asia is improving transit predictability, while multimodal corridors via the Caspian continue to gain traction. Across the region, airports such as Astana and Khorgos are investing in cargo hubs, and Uzbekistan is restoring key routes like Tashkent–Tel Aviv, supporting the recovery of regional air connectivity.


In this edition, we explore how route expansion, rail scheduling discipline, and infrastructure investment are translating into faster transit times, more stable operations, and greater routing flexibility across Eurasian supply chains.



New China–Europe Routes Reflect Shifting Capacity Dynamics

Airlines are expanding China–Europe routes as market dynamics shift, with Chinese carriers increasing their presence and strengthening long-haul connectivity.


  • New Xi’an–Vienna service launches with three weekly widebody flights, expanding Western China–Europe access

  • Beijing Daxing–Helsinki route adds new Nordic connectivity, with plans to scale frequency to daily

  • Chinese carriers now control over 80% of China–Europe capacity, benefiting from more direct routings

  • Growing demand between Europe and China continues, with passenger flows rising over 30% year-on-year


Air China Expands Long-Haul Capacity to Europe

Air China is strengthening its European network with new widebody operations from Beijing Daxing, reinforcing long-haul cargo and passenger connectivity.


  • New daily Beijing Daxing–Frankfurt service operated by Boeing 777-300ER aircraft

  • Flight time of approximately 10 hours, enabling efficient long-haul cargo flows

  • Expansion supports a dual-hub strategy in Beijing, optimizing network efficiency

  • Additional European routes planned, including Milan, further strengthening market presence



Fixed-Schedule Rail Service Connects Beijing to Central Asia

A new fixed-schedule freight train service from Beijing to Almaty has been launched, improving reliability and planning efficiency for cross-border cargo flows.


  • Transit time of approximately 9 days, supporting faster delivery between China and Central Asia

  • Regular weekly departures provide predictable scheduling for shippers

  • Route operates via Alashankou border crossing, a key China–Kazakhstan gateway

  • Enhances supply chain stability and reduces logistics costs for exporters


Astana Airport Targets Multimodal Cargo Expansion

Astana International Airport is developing a multimodal cargo hub, aiming to increase transit volumes and strengthen its logistics infrastructure.


  • Target to reach 5,000 tons of transit cargo annually by 2029

  • Planned rail connection will integrate air, road, and rail logistics flows

  • New facilities include temperature-controlled, pharmaceutical, and e-commerce warehouses

  • Development of a cargo zone and special economic zone to attract investment



Uzbekistan Restores Air Connectivity with Israel

Uzbekistan has resumed scheduled flights between Tashkent and Tel Aviv, restoring an important international aviation link.


  • Flights resumed from April 14, operating multiple times per week

  • Routes include both direct and Samarkand stopover services

  • Restores connectivity following earlier suspension due to regional tensions

  • Supports recovery of passenger and cargo flows between Central Asia and the Middle East


For logistics planning and execution, contact CargoPoint:


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