Feb. 26, 2007 (China Knowledge) – China Southern Airlines, the country's largest carrier by fleet size, plans to grow its freighter fleet to 14 aircraft from two by 2011.

Currently, China's airlines operate only 33 freighters with 7,700 tons of capacity compared to dedicated freight services. UPS and FedEx, the two biggest dedicated cargo carriers in the United States, operate a combined total of 1,000 freighters.

By 2011, China Southern expects to take delivery of six Boeing 777s and six Airbus A300s which can be adapted for passenger and freight service. The first of the A300s, which are principally designed for use on regional routes, will be delivered at the end of this year.

It is believed that the move by China Southern to expand its freighter fleet size will mean more freight connections and volume for Guangzhou's Baiyun International Airport, which will further the airport’s role as an international hub.