Hainan Airline adds direct flight between Manchester and Beijing

Hainan Airline has launched a direct flight to China from Manchester.It would be airlines first route to China from a UK airport outside of London.

Direct services from London Heathrow to Beijing are already in operation since 1980.

The route will be operated four times a week. The carrier said that it is open to discussing the idea of increase in frequency.

The launch of the service is welcomed by business and tourism leaders from both the sides. The 10.5 hours route would be of great help to business and leisure travelers from both the cities.

Previous year, the route was announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his state visit to the UK.

The launch of new route will strengthen commercial, tourism and business link between these cities.

Officials from Manchester airport said that they are also in talks with Air China to launch Manchester - Shanghai flights but congestion at Shanghai airport is a real bottleneck.