China Flights Update — 15 July 2026

flights • 15 July 2026

Malaysia Airlines has launched two new direct international routes to China, connecting Kuala Lumpur to **Shenzhen** and **Changsha**, expanding its Chinese network to nine gateways [1]. Riyadh Air has also received regulatory approval from China to launch nonstop flights to **Beijing** and **Shanghai**, though specific start dates remain unconfirmed [2]. The Malaysia Airlines expansion began with the inaugural flight to Shenzhen on **1 July 2026** (MH522), followed by the launch of services to Changsha on **8 July 2026** (MH520) [1]. Both new routes operate up to **seven weekly flights** using Boeing 737-8 aircraft, offering Australian travellers an additional Southeast Asian hub option for connecting to these southern Chinese cities [1]. Previously, Malaysia Airlines served Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Chengdu; the new Shenzhen and Changsha routes strengthen connectivity to China’s tech and cultural hubs [1]. Riyadh Air’s approved service will include **three weekly flights** to Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) and **four weekly flights** to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), totaling seven flights per week to China [2]. While the Middle East’s newest airline already flies to London, Dubai, and Cairo, the Beijing and Shanghai debut will provide Australian travellers with a new direct link from the Arabian Peninsula once operational [2]. No launch date has been announced yet, so travellers should monitor Riyadh Air’s official updates for when these routes become available.

Sources