British Airways and Virgin Atlantic will recommence their flights to China, which were discontinued due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of flight restrictions. The travel industry has greatly suffered as a result.
Virgin Atlantic will restore its passenger and cargo flights between London-Heathrow (LHR) and Shanghai on May 1, 2023, signifying the resumption of all Virgin Atlantic routes.
British Airways is set to restart flights between London-Heathrow and Shanghai starting April 23, 2023, followed by flights to Beijing starting June 3.
“We can’t wait to welcome our customers back on board our flights from Shanghai and Beijing. We know they’ve been looking forward to reuniting with family and friends, coming to study in the UK and resuming business between China and the UK,” mentioned Noella Ferns, British Airways’ Head of Sales, Asia Pacific.
Virgin Atlantic has not operated flights to Shanghai since December 23, 2020, but with the Chinese government lifting travel restrictions, both airlines are gearing up for an increase in passengers who wish to travel there.
“The return of our Shanghai services has been a long-time coming and I’m delighted it’s finally a reality. We’re looking forward to welcoming our customers back on board and providing vital links to one of the UK’s largest trading partners, for both passenger and cargo services,” explained Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic.
She added: “Shanghai is the final route to return following the global pandemic, restoring our flying programme to full capacity.”
