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Saudia Cargo has officially begun freight services to Avalon Airport, just over a month after the signing of a memorandum of understanding.
The arrival of the 747-400 freighter 9H-AKJ at 10:45am on Saturday marked Avalon as the first airport in Australia to receive freight under the Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance arrangement, signed on 9 June, opening up a direct cargo corridor with the Gulf state.
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It follows the opening of a new $8 million, 24-hour freight processing facility at Avalon last year.
“Today’s commencement of scheduled Saudia Cargo services is another important milestone in Avalon’s transformation from a traditional passenger airport into a major international aviation, logistics and trade gateway,” said Avalon Airport CEO Ari Suss.
“This is tangible proof that Avalon’s cargo strategy is delivering. We invested in world-class freight infrastructure because we believed the future growth opportunity lay in international logistics, e-commerce and trade. Today, we are seeing that vision become reality.
“Avalon Cargo Melbourne is rapidly becoming the airport global cargo operators want to work with. Our curfew-free operations, available capacity and modern freight facilities provide a compelling alternative for international logistics businesses.”
According to Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance representative and chairman of the Australia Saudi Business Chambers, Sam Jamsheedi, the new direct services can reduce reliance on third-country hubs for shipping, thus boosting speed, efficiency and reliability.
“Moving from agreement to scheduled operations in just 46 days demonstrates what can be achieved when industry, government and logistics partners work together with a shared objective,” he said.
“This first arrival is an important step in building a stronger freight corridor between Australia and Saudi Arabia and creating new commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries.”
The Victorian Government has also welcomed the launch as a shot in the arm for the state’s international freight capability, with Melissa Horne MP, Victorian Minister for Ports and Freight, calling it “an important step in Victoria’s freight and logistics sector”.
“Stronger international cargo connections help Victorian businesses reach new markets, improve supply-chain resilience and support jobs across our freight, logistics and export industries,” she said.
“This service reinforces Victoria’s position as a leading freight and trade gateway and demonstrates the value of continued investment in modern aviation and logistics infrastructure.”
Australia exported around $882 million worth of goods to Saudi Arabia in 2025.
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