Direct flight to link Shanghai and Almaty from July 4

A new direct flight connecting Shanghai and Almaty, Kazakhstan, will begin on July 4, according to China Eastern Airlines.

The route will operate every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, with a flight time of around seven hours. It aims to boost business, tourism and cultural ties between China and Central Asia.

Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, is known for its cultural diversity and stunning mountain views. The new direct route is expected to further enhance bilateral exchanges.

Promotional fares and double mileage offers are available via the airline's app for selected flights in July.

Wu Jinwen contributed to this story.