In recent news, Turkish Airlines and China Eastern Airlines have held a prosperous meeting in Shanghai, China, where the two carriers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This significant milestone marks a major step forward in the formation of a relationship between these two airlines.
The interest expressed by Chinese carriers to operate flights to Istanbul is a promising indication of the post-pandemic recovery of the prosperous Turkey-China market.
China Eastern Airlines is now joining a number of airlines operating flights between Turkey and Mainland China.
Turkish Airlines & China Eastern Flights from Istanbul…
The inaugural China Eastern flight on the new Shanghai-Istanbul route took place on September 28th, 2023.
Turkish Airlines currently operates a once-daily frequency on the same route, usually operated by a Boeing 777. under flight number TK26.
Meanwhile, China Eastern Airlines now operates 3 flights weekly utilizing an A330 as flight MU704.
During their meeting in Shanghai, both airlines agreed to enhance and expand their cooperation, specifically in relation to China Eastern Airlines flights between Shanghai and Istanbul.
The existing Special Proration Agreement (SPA) between the two partners will be further improved upon, and plans for additional significant steps will be pursued once the necessary authorizations are obtained from the relevant authorities.
Both Turkish Airlines and the Chinese carrier hope that this collaboration will maximize the benefits derived from their extensive networks.
This partnership holds significant promise for the future, and we can expect more exciting developments in the Asian air travel industry as air travel continues to grow.
Executive Comments…
Turkish Airlines CEO, Bilal Ekşi, expressed his satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “As Turkish Airlines one of the biggest actors in the world of aviation, we will not limit ourselves to our already world class network and collaborations in order to continue our 90 years journey of success from boutique to the top”.
“Our operations to People’s Republic of China continue with 7 weekly frequencies each in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing”.
Li Yangmin, CEO of the Chinese carrier also shared his opinions noting, “The opening of China Eastern Airlines air service from Pudong, Shanghai to Istanbul, Türkiye, will further facilitate trade and personnel movement between the two countries.”
“China Eastern Airlines and Turkish Airlines have a good foundation for cooperation”.
This collaboration between Turkish Airlines and China Eastern Airlines represents a significant milestone and a positive step towards the revitalization of air travel between Turkey and Mainland China.
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