Air China, Shenzhen Airlines explore collaboration in London

Air China and Shenzhen Airlines hosted a client presentation in London, the United Kingdom, on May 16, bringing together representatives from the Chinese embassy in the UK, the China National Tourist Office, Chinese businesses, and major media outlets to explore new opportunities for collaboration.

Air China and Shenzhen Airlines highlighted their 2025 flight schedules and newly upgraded products and services at the event.

Notably, the Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, in Southwest China's Sichuan province, to London Heathrow Airport route has been upgraded as of April to be operated by the Airbus A350, providing a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.

Air China introduced a range of tailored services — including exclusive packages for approved Chinese corporate clients and joint products with Lufthansa — providing comprehensive benefits from ticket discounts to baggage allowances, all designed to meet the personalized travel needs of business customers.

Representatives from Chinese enterprises spoke highly of both Air China and Shenzhen Airlines, and engaged in discussions about future collaboration.

There was a shared consensus that both airlines play a vital role in the China-UK aviation market. Beyond offering convenient travel options between the two countries, Air China and Shenzhen Airlines are seen as key enablers of deeper bilateral cooperation across trade, culture, education, and other strategic sectors.

As the largest carriers in the China-UK aviation market, Air China and Shenzhen Airlines have established an integrated and coordinated operation across the UK.

The two airlines currently operate 36 flights per week, with plans to increase that number to 39 during the busy summer travel season through the addition of three weekly flights between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and London Gatwick Airport. This expansion will create a dense and efficient air network between the two countries.

Air China and Shenzhen Airlines will continue to focus on meeting customer needs by enhancing service quality and operational efficiency. They will also strengthen collaborations with various partners to boost China-UK relations, innovate their offerings, explore new markets, and attract more international visitors to China for tourism and business.