Riyadh, April 17, 2024, China Southern Airlines (China Southern) celebrated the inaugural flight of its Beijing Daxing - Riyadh route in a special event held yesterday, marking a milestone as the first scheduled passenger service operated by a Chinese airline connecting the Chinese mainland directly with Saudi Arabia. The news was announced in a press release by China Southern Airlines.
The event was attended by China Southern's senior management, representatives from the Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), the Saudi Tourism Authority, and key industry partners. Alongside the Beijing Daxing - Riyadh route, China Southern introduced other international routes connecting to Belt and Road Initiative countries and regions. The event highlighted services and advantages at Beijing Daxing International Airport, in-flight catering, and customized cabin offerings.
Mr. ZHANG Dongsheng, Deputy Director General of the Commercial Steering Committee of China Southern, emphasized the significance of the new route in deepening cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia across economic, trade, cultural, and tourism sectors. He also highlighted China Southern's commitment to aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with Vision 2030.
Majid Khan, CEO of Saudi Arabia's Air Connectivity Program (ACP), expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, calling the inaugural flight a significant milestone that strengthens ties between the two countries and creates opportunities for mutual growth.
China Southern has introduced 14 non-stop international and regional routes from Beijing Daxing, including destinations within the Belt and Road Initiative. The carrier plans to expand its network further, aiming to enhance air connectivity with Belt and Road Initiative countries and regions, and contribute to the development of an Air Silk Road.
The inaugural Beijing Daxing - Riyadh flight was operated by an Airbus A330-300 aircraft and featured themed celebrations onboard, showcasing Beijing's characteristics and Saudi culture. The flight schedule includes departures every Tuesday and Saturday.
Passengers traveling on this route can enjoy international baggage through check-in service and other benefits. For more information, visit China Southern's official website. China Southern remains committed to expanding flights to Belt and Road Initiative countries and regions, bolstering China's global connectivity, and supporting the nation's Belt and Road Initiative goals.
