New International Flight Routes to China: May 2026 Update

flights • 5 May 2026

# New International Flight Routes to China: May 2026 Update Several major airlines have recently launched or are preparing to launch new international routes connecting China to key destinations across Asia and Europe, expanding travel options for Australian visitors. **Asian Expansion** Air China has opened a **direct route between Chongqing and Manila**, launching on 3 May 2026 with four round-trip flights weekly using Boeing 737 aircraft[1]. This route is particularly convenient for Australian travellers, as the Philippines offers a 14-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens, making it an easy stopover destination[1]. The new Manila service expands Air China's Philippine network to three routes with 15 round-trip flights weekly[1]. China Eastern Airlines has also expanded its network, inaugurating flights between **Xi'an and Vienna** on 20 April, covering a 7,405-kilometre route[4]. Additionally, VietJet has announced five new routes strengthening China-Vietnam connectivity, including services from Hanoi to Hangzhou, Enshi, and Huangshan, and from Ho Chi Minh City to Huangshan[6]. **European Growth** Air China is pursuing significant European expansion this summer. The airline will launch a **historic direct Beijing–Venice route** beginning 2 July 2026, operating four times weekly with Airbus A330-200 aircraft[2]. This marks the first-ever nonstop connection between Beijing and Venice, following the success of Air China's Shanghai–Venice service launched in 2024[2]. Beyond Venice, Air China is also launching new routes to Brussels, Frankfurt, London, and Milan as part of a broader European growth strategy[2]. These route expansions reflect growing demand for direct connectivity between China and international destinations, offering Australian travellers more convenient travel options and shorter journey times.

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