Turkey and China have signed an air services memorandum, significantly increasing weekly passenger flight rights. The agreement more than doubles permitted weekly flights from twenty-one to forty-nine in each direction. Turkish airlines gain access to Chengdu, Urumqi, and Xi'an.
The previous agreement limited flights for carriers like Turkish Airlines, Air China, and others. The new memorandum provides opportunities to enhance air services and expand route networks. This expansion aligns with strong growth in the Turkey-China air travel market.
China Eastern Airlines plans a new Xi'an-Istanbul route starting June 30, 2025. The service will operate three times a week using Airbus A330-200 aircraft. This enhances cargo transport between Turkey and China, supporting growing trade flows.