China’s international air links keep expanding with fresh Europe routes

flights • 18 May 2026

**China’s international air links keep expanding with fresh Europe routes** According to **Global Times**, Chinese carriers are continuing their international expansion with several new Europe services set to begin in June and July. China Eastern Airlines will start **Shanghai Pudong–Zurich** flights on **18 June**, operating **three times a week**, while Capital Airlines is scheduled to launch **Beijing Daxing–Lisbon** on **22 June**. Air China will also add **Beijing–Venice** from **2 July**, with the route flying **four times weekly**. For Australian travellers planning a wider Europe-and-China itinerary, these additions can make it easier to connect into major Chinese hubs before continuing on to Europe. The broader trend is also positive for anyone looking at China as a stopover or multi-city trip. **SCMP** reports that China-Europe flight frequencies are rising this summer, with direct services expected to climb from **3,011 flights this month to 4,151 in August** at peak season, according to OAG. For travellers, that usually means more schedule choice and potentially better connection options through hubs such as **Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou**. If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking both airline websites and booking platforms early, as new routes often bring the best mix of fares and timings when they first launch.

Sources