Flights to mainland China will resume, according to British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.
Following the COVID-19 outbreak and the implementation of flight restrictions, both Airlines were obliged to cut back on their flight routes to China, which had a negative impact on the travel business.
On May 1, 2023, Virgin Atlantic will start operating on all of its routes once more, including flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Shanghai for both passengers and cargo.
Beginning on April 23, 2023, British Airways will resume service between London Heathrow and Shanghai, followed by Beijing on June 3.
“We can’t wait to welcome our customers back on board our flights from Shanghai and Beijing. We know they’ve been looking forward to reuniting with family and friends, coming to study in the UK, and resuming business between China and the UK,” said Noella Ferns, British Airways’ Head of Sales, Asia Pacific.
Virgin Atlantic hasn’t operated a flight to Shanghai since December 23, 2020, but both airlines are gearing up for a spike in demand due to the Chinese government’s relaxation of travel restrictions.
“The return of our Shanghai services has been a long-time coming and I’m delighted it’s finally a reality. We’re looking forward to welcoming our customers back on board and providing vital links to one of the UK’s largest trading partners, for both passenger and cargo services,” explained Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic.
She added: “Shanghai is the final route to return following the global pandemic, restoring our flying program to full capacity.”
