Dublin Airport has inaugurated its first direct air link to Shanghai, establishing a new non-stop route to China’s largest city. This development, launched on Monday, is operated by China Eastern Airlines and is set to become the longest scheduled non-stop flight from Dublin Airport. The service will operate three times a week using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
The introduction of this route is expected to significantly enhance Ireland’s connections with China, one of the most dynamic aviation markets in the world. The airport operator, daa, highlighted the potential for this new link to boost travel, tourism, trade, and educational exchanges between Ireland and China. This strategic move aims to open up new opportunities for both countries and strengthen their bilateral relations.
China Eastern Airlines, a prominent member of the SkyTeam alliance, has a substantial presence across Europe, Asia, Oceania, North America, South America, and the Middle East. The airline’s chairman, Wang Zhiqing, emphasized that the new service will establish a convenient and efficient air corridor, fostering enhanced cooperation and people-to-people connections between the two nations.
Dublin Airport officials view the launch of this route as a significant expansion of their long-haul network. It represents a major milestone in the airport’s efforts to connect Ireland more directly with global destinations, particularly in Asia. The new service is anticipated to attract a diverse range of passengers, facilitating smoother travel experiences and opening doors for business and cultural interactions.