China Eastern Airlines will launch a one-stop flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina, starting in December this year, marking its expansion into South America.
The carrier runs two weekly flights from Shanghai to Buenos Aires via Auckland, using the so-called “South Corridor” to South America. Eastern China plans to deploy the Boeing 777-300ER on its route, which will be subject to regulatory approval.
SkyTeam carriers will also operate Auckland-Buenos Aires as the fifth Friedum route, allowing them to take advantage of the demands of trans-Pacific travel. If approved by the regulatory authority, you will be the sole operator of the route.
Eastern China currently operates daily flights between Shanghai Pudong and Auckland. New Zealand flies five times a week between the two cities.
Airline chair Wang Zhiqing says the launch of the new route is in line with the airline's plans to “fly internationally and fly to emerging markets.”
In comments following the signature ceremony in Shanghai, Wang added: “China Eastern Airlines will build a 'South Corridor' from New Zealand to South America on a wide road (and) development road for cooperation. ”
Eastern China is the second of China's three largest operators to fly to South America. Air China flies to the Brazilian city of São Paolo, which operates via Beijing and Madrid.
