Chinese carrier China Eastern Airlines is set to commence a new direct route from Shanghai Pudong to Zurich, operating thrice weekly with Airbus A350-900 aircraft starting June 18. The route expansion exemplifies China's ongoing efforts to extend its influence in European markets, benefiting from Russian airspace access which allows more direct routing.
Switzerland's demand for Chinese travelers is recovering, with data showing traffic of approximately 345,000 passengers in 2025. The Zurich route is part of China Eastern’s broader European network expansion, which also includes upcoming services to Stockholm and Vienna.
Meanwhile, Canadian airline Air Canada plans to introduce seasonal flights connecting Vancouver with Sapporo starting December 17. Operating three times weekly with Boeing 787-8 aircraft, the route will deliver the only nonstop connection between North America and Japan’s Hokkaido region, catering to winter tourism and leisure travel.
In the United States, EVA Air aims to launch a new Taipei Taoyuan to Washington Dulles route, operating four times weekly beginning in June. This marks the Taiwanese carrier’s first direct service to the U.S. capital, enhancing connections within Star Alliance. The route addresses both connecting traffic and local demand, further consolidating EVA Air’s North American presence.
