SF Airlines, a cargo carrier based in Shenzhen, has become the latest airline to join the International Air Transport Association (IATA) from North Asia, in a move to become more active on the international stage.

The airline received its IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification on November 10 after a comprehensive assessment of its operational management and control systems. The audit, which is a pre-requisite for an IATA membership, examined all the operational departments across the airline to ensure that the carrier's internal processes promote; safety, integrity and effectiveness in its management systems.

SF Airlines and IATA held a Membership Certification ceremony in Shenzhen on December 20.

The IATA membership will increase opportunities for collaborations with foreign carriers and enhance its safety management and competitive strength in global market, said SF Airlines.

As a subsidiary of S.F. Express (Group) Co., Ltd., SF Airlines has been constantly expanding its fleet size since its first flight operation in 2009. With its main base at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, the cargo carrier owns 36 all-cargo aircraft including four Boeing 767s, 16 B757s and 16 B737s.