Cathay Cargo has become the first airline to operate under the newly launched Air-Land Fresh Lane, streamlining cross-border movement of perishables via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, reported London's Air Cargo News.

The initiative, developed by Guangdong and Hong Kong SAR authorities, enables seamless transport of fruit and seafood from Hong Kong International Airport into the Greater Bay Area using temperature-controlled trucks with GPS and e-locks under a single air waybill.

A "Certificate for Transshipment Confirmation" issued by Hong Kong Customs and Excise simplifies inspections and waives food importer registration, cutting time and cost.

The system complies with China's customs regulations for imported fruit and aquatic animals. A temperature-controlled inspection facility at Zhuhai Port ensures cold chain integrity.

Cathay Cargo completed its first trial in mid-August with live lobsters from Melbourne, followed by geoducks from Los Angeles. Both shipments moved swiftly from aircraft to truck.

General Manager Cargo Commercial James Evans said the new lane opens up exciting opportunities for premium perishables in the 86-million-strong Greater Bay Area market.

He added that the GBA is both a key export hub and a powerful consumer market for high-quality goods.

Connectivity between Hong Kong and the GBA has improved since the opening of the bridge, including a new intermodal cargo operation linking Hong Kong International Airport and Dongguan Logistics Park via barge.