21 Mar 2025
#4 March 2025: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
China Eastern Connects Shanghai and Abu Dhabi with New Nonstop Service
China Eastern Airlines (CEA) has announced a new direct route between Shanghai Pudong and Abu Dhabi, set to launch on April 28. This makes CEA the first Chinese airline to connect these cities directly. The route, operated in partnership with Etihad Airways, will run four times a week aboard an Airbus A330. The aircraft will feature high-speed in-flight connectivity, ensuring seamless internet access. This expansion follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2023 between CEA and Etihad to enhance codeshare agreements, frequent flyer programs, cargo operations, and sustainability initiatives.
HK Express Expands Korean Network with New Routes to Cheongju and Daegu
HK Express is adding two new South Korean destinations—Cheongju and Daegu—to its network. The direct flights, set to commence on June 5 and June 6, 2025, will improve accessibility for travellers looking to explore Korea’s cultural and scenic attractions. With these additions, HK Express becomes the only airline in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area to provide direct services to five major Korean destinations, including Seoul, Busan, and Jeju.
Vietnam Seeks Regulatory Updates to Enable COMAC Aircraft Operations
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) is working on legal revisions to allow the operation of China’s COMAC aircraft in Vietnam. The changes, proposed as part of the 2025 lawmaking program, would modify Decree 92/2016 and Circular 01/2011, which govern civil aviation business and safety regulations. The updates aim to facilitate approvals for Type Certificates (TC) for COMAC aircraft, issue flying licenses under “wet-lease” agreements, and update airline licenses for operating COMAC aircraft under “dry-lease” arrangements with Vietnamese carriers.
Acumen’s Take
On China Eastern’s Shanghai-Abu Dhabi Route:
China Eastern’s expansion to Abu Dhabi is a strategic move that strengthens Sino-Middle Eastern aviation ties. As global air travel rebounds, such partnerships will play a vital role in enhancing connectivity between key financial and cultural hubs. With Etihad’s support, this route is expected to attract both business and leisure travellers, further solidifying the importance of Abu Dhabi as a regional transit hub.
On HK Express’ Korean Network Expansion:
HK Express is capitalising on the growing demand for travel between Hong Kong and South Korea, particularly with the rising popularity of K-culture tourism. By adding Cheongju and Daegu, the airline is diversifying its offerings and positioning itself as a leader in the Greater Bay Area’s low-cost carrier market. This move could also encourage further competition among regional airlines looking to expand into niche destinations.
On Vietnam’s Regulatory Updates for COMAC Aircraft:
Vietnam’s willingness to accommodate COMAC aircraft signals growing confidence in China’s aviation manufacturing capabilities. If approved, these regulatory changes will open new opportunities for Chinese aircraft manufacturers in Southeast Asia. However, the success of COMAC’s expansion into Vietnam will depend on regulatory alignment, safety certifications, and market acceptance. The move is a potential game-changer, but careful execution will be key.
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