China Eastern Airlines, one of China’s leading carriers, has launched direct scheduled flights between Xi’an—one of China’s ancient capitals—and Istanbul Airport. This strategic route, linking the eastern end of the historic Silk Road with Istanbul, marks the beginning of a new era by strengthening air connectivity between the two countries.
Following the inaugural flight, a welcome ceremony was held at Istanbul Airport with the participation of Wu Jian, Consul General of China in Istanbul; Li Ge, China Eastern’s Istanbul Manager; and officials from İGA.
Speaking at the event, Consul General Wu Jian said, “I am very pleased to attend the opening ceremony of China Eastern’s Xi’an–Istanbul route. I congratulate China Eastern on the launch of this new service and extend my thanks to Turkish authorities and all stakeholders. This route marks China Eastern’s second direct flight to Türkiye and opens a new chapter in our aviation cooperation.”
Three Weekly Flights Operated with Airbus A330
Under the new service, flights will be operated three times a week in both directions using wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft. The new route is expected to generate significant synergy in both tourism and trade sectors.
Fırat Ocak, Director of Aviation Development at İGA, said, “We are delighted to welcome the first scheduled flight from Xi’an—one of the key stops on the ancient Silk Road—to Istanbul. These flights, to be operated three times a week by China Eastern, will contribute to Istanbul Airport’s vision of becoming a global transfer hub.”
Li Ge, China Eastern’s Istanbul Manager, added, “Xi’an is the starting point of the ancient Silk Road, while Istanbul is its gateway to the West. This route will not only strengthen the connection between Western China and Türkiye but also build a strong air bridge between the two countries in the fields of economy, culture, tourism, and trade.”
The new Xi’an–Istanbul route is set to significantly enhance diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between Türkiye and China, while also providing a new incentive for Chinese tourists to visit Türkiye.
