From the Great Hall to the Great Wall

Edinburgh Airport has reconnected with Beijing as Hainan Airlines resumes its service between the capitals of Scotland and China.

The service – Scotland’s only direct service to China - will operate twice weekly, departing Edinburgh on Mondays and Fridays from 26 June to 6 October. It will operate on an Airbus A330.

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said:

“We’re excited to be reconnecting Scotland and China and deliver yet more destination and experience choices for our passengers.

“Our countries are both steeped in history and heritage, and this Hainan Airlines service will make it easier for people in Scotland and China to experience the very best of our countries. It’s also another signal of strength in Edinburgh as a destination for people across the world.

“We know that there is a deep connection between our countries and this route will help to reconnect friends, families and businesses, as well as allow us to forge new economic relationships to the benefit of Scotland on a national and local level.”

Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:

“I warmly welcome the start of Hainan’s direct service between Edinburgh Airport and Beijing. 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.

“Our aspiration is for Scotland to be as well connected globally as peer nations and regions and this service is an important boost to our international connectivity, demonstrating growing confidence in the Scottish aviation market.

“I wish Edinburgh Airport and Hainan every success with this service.”