China Southern Airlines has announced the commencement of direct flights between Dhaka and Beijing, starting from July 15, 2024.
The new flights will utilise Airbus A321 Neo aircraft, featuring 12 business class seats and 187 economy class seats, offering a total of 199 seats per flight. Supplied photo
The airline will operate two weekly flights on Mondays and Saturdays, enhancing connectivity between Bangladesh and China.
The announcement was made during an official event held at a hotel in Dhaka on July 1, attended by various dignitaries, including Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Muhammad Farooq Khan, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, and representatives from the Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI).
Minister Muhammad Farooq Khan highlighted the significance of this new route in strengthening trade and economic relations between the two countries.
He stressed China’s longstanding partnership with Bangladesh, citing the pivotal role China played in the construction of the Padma Bridge.
The minister also expressed optimism about future direct flights between Cox’s Bazar and Kunming, which could further enhance tourism and connectivity.
Chinese Ambassador Yao Wen noted that the new route would foster greater cooperation, people-to-people connections, and mutual benefits for both nations.
He expressed the hope that the direct flights would encourage more travels and opportunities between China and Bangladesh.
FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam underscored the importance of communication in facilitating global business and invited Chinese investors to explore opportunities in Bangladesh.
Habib Ullah Don, Managing Director of China Southern Airlines GSA, Amnestor Solutions Limited, and Director of FBCCI, stated that the new route is a testament to the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries, particularly in trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.
Ji Kangjia, General Manager of China Southern Airlines Bangladesh, highlighted the airline’s extensive network and commitment to excellence. He noted that the airline operates more than 3,000 flights daily to over 200 destinations worldwide.
Last year, China Southern Airlines carried over 120,000 passengers from Dhaka to Beijing, and the first half of this year has already seen nearly 40,000 passengers on the same route.
The new flights will utilise Airbus A321 Neo aircraft, featuring 12 business class seats and 187 economy class seats, offering a total of 199 seats per flight.
The event was attended, among others, by Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority (CAB) Chairman Air Vice Marshal Md Mofidur Rahman, representatives from Bangladesh Bank, and leading travel agencies.