Extra China Flights Boost North’s Fortunes

Passengers can now choose from four flights a week between Manchester and mainland China, it has been confirmed.

Hainan Airlines launched its route to Beijing in 2016, delivering an economic and cultural boost to the region. However, Covid-related travel restrictions meant the service was paused, until a single weekly flight resumed in August 2022.

Now, however, Hainan has increased the service to four-times-a-week with immediate effect. Airbus A330 aircraft flights now operate from Manchester to Beijing every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Manchester Airport Managing Director Chris Woodroofe said:“The economic benefits of more regular flights between Manchester and Beijing will be significant, whether that be in terms of trade, tourism or inward investment.

“….as the final international travel restrictions have been removed, it has been hugely exciting to see services like this return to full strength, underlining Manchester Airport’s role as the UK’s global gateway in the North.”

Henri Murison, Chief Executive of the Northern Powerhouse Partnership, added: “This is great news not just for Manchester but the whole of the North of England.

“Manchester Airport acts as the North’s long-haul hub, giving us access to key global markets, such as China, which are absolutely vital for our economy, unlocking billions through trade, tourism and investment.

“It’s also critical for supporting the thousands of international students, who come to the Northern Powerhouse to study at our world-leading universities.”