The Chinese airline China Eastern Airlines is set to launch a new route connecting Shanghai-Pudong (PVG) to Zurich (ZRH) beginning on June 18, 2026. The service will initially operate three times a week, offering additional direct connections between China and Europe. This route’s launch, delayed from its original schedule in 2025, aims to strengthen China Eastern’s European presence and compete directly with Swiss International Air Lines, which currently operates this route.
For this service, China Eastern will utilize its Airbus A350-900 aircraft, configured with three classes—Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class—each designed to meet high comfort standards for flights exceeding twelve hours. The airline’s expansion enhances its hub at Shanghai-Pudong Airport (PVG), a key economic center, thereby providing significant benefits to business travelers and boosting regional connectivity.
Zurich Airport stands to benefit from these new flights, as they expand its Asian gateway options amidst the recent easing of travel restrictions. The cooperation within the SkyTeam alliance will facilitate broader connectivity across China and Southeast Asia. Chinese airlines’ ability to choose shorter routes via Russian airspace offers a competitive edge over Western carriers in flight time and fuel efficiency. Confirmation of slot allocations and the commencement of ticket sales are expected in the coming weeks, increasing travel options for passengers heading to the Yangtze River Delta.
