China Eastern Airlines is boosting its flight services to London this winter. This expansion comes as several European airlines, including Lufthansa, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic, exit the Chinese market. These airlines are stepping back due to rising operational costs and intense competition. Meanwhile, China Eastern seizes the chance to enhance its presence in the China-Europe aviation landscape.

Beginning October 27, 2024, the IATA winter season will see an increase in flights from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). The airline will raise its weekly flights from seven to nine. It will operate these using a mix of Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Notably, five of these flights will utilize the A350 from October 28 to December 31. Additionally, flights to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) will also increase significantly, going from seven to twelve weekly, all operated by the 777-300ER.

This surge in China Eastern’s offerings coincides with a major withdrawal of UK airlines from China. Virgin Atlantic has recently announced it will stop its last connection to Shanghai from London Heathrow. This decision means the airline will completely exit China after October 26, 2024. It faces numerous operational challenges, particularly the need to avoid Russian airspace.

British Airways remains active on the LHR-PVG route but will discontinue its service to Beijing Daxing (PKX) starting October 27. The airline attributes this change to high operating costs linked to avoiding Russian airspace and an oversupply in the UK-China market. Historically, British Airways operated three routes to China, including Chengdu, which it dropped in 2017.

Furthermore, Lufthansa has also decided to cut its Frankfurt-Beijing route for the winter season. This decision further reflects the trend of European airlines retreating from the Chinese market.

In recent years, Chinese airlines have steadily increased their market share between the UK and China. Analysis shows that the combined seat share of Virgin Atlantic and British Airways has dropped from 54% in August 2014 to just under 15% today. This sharp decline highlights the growing dominance of Chinese carriers in the UK-China aviation sector.

For instance, in November, only two Chinese airlines will operate between London and Beijing. Air China and China Southern Airlines will provide frequent flights, demonstrating the increasing influence of Chinese airlines in this crucial market.

Overall, as China Eastern Airlines expands its flights, the question remains: can European airlines regain their footing in the China-UK aviation market, or will they remain overshadowed by their Chinese counterparts? As the winter season approaches, this evolving landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for all airlines involved. Lastly, don’t forget to check WentWorld.com and follow our social media channels for ultimate travel tips and destination guides.

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