China Eastern Airlines has announced that from 31 October, it will once again operate nonstop flights between Shanghai and Brisbane.

China’s second-largest airline will start with three weekly flights, and by December 2023, when peak travel season begins, they will be operating daily.

An Airbus A330-200 widebody, configured in a two-class layout to transport 232 people, will be used by China Eastern Airlines on the route.

Another Chinese airline, China Southern Airlines, recently announced that its A350-900 aircraft would resume service between Guangzhou and Brisbane.

“This is yet another sign that Queensland’s Chinese tourism market is reviving.” We are thrilled to see Shanghai return to Brisbane. According to Gert-Jan de Graaff, chief executive officer of Brisbane Airport, “Shanghai is China’s largest city and a commercial hub, making it a key city for business and leisure travel.”

“With two carriers set to resume services from mainland China, we believe China will reclaim its position as Queensland’s top source of inbound tourists in 2024.” This is really exciting news for the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and North Queensland.”

“China Eastern Airlines, a Skyteam member, is thrilled to return to Brisbane on 29 October 2023 and offer Brisbane travellers nonstop service to Shanghai,” said Jim Young, general manager of China Eastern Airlines Oceania.

Shanghai has a greater population than the whole continent of Australia, making it China’s most populous metropolis. Since it is the centre of China’s commercial activity, it is a popular place for business and pleasure.

Qantas will operate codeshare flights between Brisbane and Beijing on China Eastern.

Until the service moves to daily for peak season on 8 December, it will depart Brisbane on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11:10 am and depart Shanghai on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 2100 pm local time.