On Monday, a historic aviation milestone was achieved as the first-ever direct flight route connecting Dublin Airport and Shanghai commenced operations. This new non-stop service marks Ireland’s inaugural direct air link to China’s largest metropolis, Shanghai.
Operated by China Eastern Airlines, the new route will see flights scheduled three times a week, utilizing Airbus A350-900 aircraft. With this development, Dublin Airport is set to host its longest-ever scheduled non-stop flight. Airport operator daa highlighted that this direct connection significantly enhances Ireland’s ties with a key global aviation market, fostering increased travel, tourism, trade, and educational exchanges between Ireland and China.
China Eastern Airlines, based in Shanghai and a member of the SkyTeam alliance, provides extensive flight services across continents including Europe, Asia, Oceania, North America, South America, and the Middle East. The introduction of this route is seen as an important addition to Dublin Airport’s long-haul network, with officials expressing that it will open up new opportunities for passengers traveling between the two nations.
Wang Zhiqing, Chairman of China Eastern Airlines, remarked on the significance of the new service, emphasizing that it establishes a convenient and efficient air corridor between Ireland and China. He noted that this connection is poised to bolster cooperation and strengthen people-to-people ties between the countries.