Increase in flights scheduled by Turkish Airlines for China, effective from October onwards
In a significant move to strengthen the ties between Turkey and China, Turkish Airlines (THY) has announced an expansion of its flights to China. The increase in flights is scheduled for October 26, 2025.
As per the recent civil aviation memorandum, the number of weekly passenger flights between Turkey and China has increased from 21 to 49 flights per side. In line with this, Turkish Airlines will raise its weekly flights to China from the current 21 to 31 flights.
The new flights will be distributed among Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, with Turkish Airlines operating 10 flights to Beijing, 11 to Shanghai, and 10 to Guangzhou. This expansion reflects the broader Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2024, which also allowed more flights and added rights to three additional Chinese cities (Chengdu, Urumqi, and Xi’an). However, Turkish Airlines is initially focusing on increasing frequencies on the three main routes before launching new destinations.
The increase in flights is expected to add further momentum to the tourist flow between Turkey and China. Last year, a memorandum was signed between Ankara and Beijing to boost, develop, and encourage cooperation in the field of tourism.
Trade volume between Turkey and China has been on the rise over the years, with China being one of the top countries Turkey sources its goods from. This increased connectivity through flights is expected to further bolster trade relations between the two nations.
The announcement was made by Turkish Airlines' CEO, Bilal Eksi, on Tuesday. As of October 2025, there will be 31 flights from Turkey to China, offering more opportunities for both business and leisure travel between the two countries.
Turkish Airlines' increased flights to China, commencing on October 26, 2025, will not only enhance tourism but also strengthen business relationships between Ankara and Beijing. With the addition of 10 flights to Beijing, 11 to Shanghai, and 10 to Guangzhou, the improved lifestyle for leisure travelers, as well as the potential for business expansion, will undoubtedly be noticed in the Ankara-China lifestyle and trade spheres.
