Air China has commenced a new service connecting Beijing, Bucharest, and Zagreb, aiming to stimulate outbound demand and tourism. Operated with Airbus A330-200 aircraft, the route runs three times weekly and targets multiple markets—Chinese visitors, Croatian travelers, and passengers transiting between Zagreb and Bucharest under fifth freedom traffic rights. The inaugural flight on September 4 carried 77 passengers from Beijing through Bucharest to Zagreb, with additional traffic on the return segment from Zagreb. Early passenger data indicate promising growth in outbound demand, supported by Croatia’s visa-free entry for Chinese passport holders until December 2026.
Local Croatian tour operators are now offering travel packages to Beijing using Air China’s flights, and the airline actively promotes its Zagreb-Bucharest sector, which remains unchallenged by direct competitors. Return fares are accessible at approximately 100 euros, making the route attractive for travelers. Efforts to attract inbound Chinese tourists include promotional events attended by Zagreb officials and Chinese representatives, emphasizing the enhancing accessibility and market potential China offers Croatia. Officials have reported strong flight occupancy and increased visa requests, with plans to operate the service throughout 2027, fostering the growth of bilateral tourism and economic cooperation.
