Chinese airline sees exceptional growth on Chengdu-Moscow route

CHINA: China’s Sichuan Airlines has transported more than 500,000 passengers and 26,000 tonnes of cargo on its Chengdu-Moscow (Russia) route since its launch in May 2015, according to recent data released by the airline.

The Chengdu-Moscow route links the largest population market in southwest China and the capital of Russia with regular non-stop flights.

At a ceremony in Moscow marking the 10th anniversary of the flight route recently, Natalia Andrianova, deputy head of the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, said that the stable operation of regular flights between Russia and China has closely connected the peoples of the two countries.

“At present, the trade volume between the two countries has repeatedly hit new highs, and the two-way flow of tourists has continued to rise,” Andrianova said. “This is not only a breakthrough in terms of statistics but also means that millions of people have been able to personally experience the cultural treasures and natural wonders of China and Russia.”

This flight route represents “a pivotal milestone in our operations,” said Wang Yang, general manager of Sichuan Airlines.

“We are willing to deepen cooperation with Moscow Airport, continuously increase the density of flight route networks, optimise flight services, explore a new future of smart airports and green aviation, and create a safer and more efficient travel experience for global passengers,” he noted.

The airline unveiled its plan to increase the Chengdu-Saint Petersburg route to daily service in July, and expand the Chengdu-Moscow route to daily flights by this year’s winter season.