Direct flights from Edinburgh to China return

Direct service to Beijing returns this summer

Edinburgh Airport has announced the welcome return of a direct service to Beijing this summer. Hainan airlines will operate flights twice-weekly between Scotland’s busiest airport and the Chinese capital from 26 June until 8 October.

This will be the only direct flight connecting Scotland and China when it begins operating next month.

Flights will depart Beijing’s capital airport each Monday and Friday at 02.40, arriving in Edinburgh at 06.30. The return services will depart the Scottish capital at 12.00, arriving at Beijing’s capital airport the following morning at 05.10.

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Flight at Edinburgh Airport

I welcome the announcement of this direct service between Edinburgh Airport and Beijing, which is an important development for both Edinburgh and Scotland’s international connectivity.

This direct connectivity is great news for people and businesses in both Scotland and China, building strong links for business and exports, as well as making it easier for visitors and students to come and experience Scotland.

Kevin Stewart, Transport Minister

The return of direct flights to Beijing is fantastic news as we gear up for a hugely exciting summer, and is further evidence of the strong recovery we’re seeing here at Edinburgh.

This service will be the only one operating between Scotland and China when it is introduced and is a real show of faith in the market by Hainan Airlines. This important connectivity will provide a boost to Scotland’s universities and tourism industry, open up a wealth of new business opportunities, and enable better access to other parts of the world.

We’re sure it will be highly valued whether it be by students travelling between the two countries to study, families reconnecting, or tourists travelling to visit new places.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport

Unpack China training toolkit

The Edinburgh Tourism Action Group (ETAG) China Ready Initiative has launched "Unpack China", a new online training toolkit for Scottish tourism businesses to ensure they stay at the forefront of inbound tourism from China.

Benefitting everyone in the tourism and hospitality sector, from front line staff to the management team, "Unpack China" is a series of sixteen short films and resources. Its available online and for free. It will help Scotland’s tourism and hospitality providers understand and anticipate the needs and expectations of visitors from China.

Visit the Unpack China website

Family up Carlton Hill