The inauguration of a direct flight route between Dublin Airport and Shanghai has marked a significant milestone in air travel, as it is the first non-stop connection from Ireland to China’s largest city. This new service, launched on Monday, is operated by China Eastern Airlines and will run three times a week using the Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Notably, this route is set to become the longest non-stop flight ever scheduled from Dublin Airport.
This development is expected to bolster Ireland’s connectivity with one of the most substantial aviation markets globally, offering enhanced travel, tourism, trade, and educational exchange opportunities between the two countries. The airport’s operator, daa, has highlighted the importance of this connection in strengthening Ireland’s international links.
China Eastern Airlines, headquartered in Shanghai and a member of the SkyTeam alliance, provides flights across various regions, including Europe, Asia, Oceania, North America, South America, and the Middle East. The addition of this route to Dublin Airport’s long-haul network is seen as a significant enhancement, creating new travel opportunities for passengers journeying between Ireland and China.
Officials at Dublin Airport have expressed optimism about the strategic benefits this route will offer, seeing it as a major addition to their long-haul services. The new air link is expected to not only facilitate easier travel but also stimulate increased cooperation and interaction between people of the two nations.
Wang Zhiqing, Chairman of China Eastern Airlines, emphasized the value of this new service, describing it as a convenient and efficient air corridor that will both enhance cooperation and foster closer people-to-people ties between Ireland and China.