Airways flies direct to Beijing - The Nation

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Airways flies direct to Beijing - The Nation

South African Airways (SAA)  has launched its non-stop route to the capital of the People’s Republic of China, Beijing, from O.R. Tambo International Airport. The flight was the first of three new weekly frequencies between South Africa and the Chinese capital. The route’s introduction follows a comprehensive strategic partnership forged between the two countries in August last year.

 “The introduction of aviation links between nations nurtures economic activity,” says SAA CEO Siza Mzimela, “with domestic and regional benefit within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) expected to pay dividends both in terms of trade and tourism.” Mzimela also believes that substantial demand for tourism and trade to China will contribute to the success of the new route. China is one of South Africa’s largest trade partners.

 The Johannesburg Beijing route will also contribute significantly in establishing South Africa as an aviation hub between South America and China, linking three of the five BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). “We believe that the route will play a strategic role in the growing economic relationships and dependencies between the continents. 

Commercially, SAA is able to deliver seamless travel from Sao Paolo via Johannesburg to Beijing, servicing all three continents” says Mzimela.  SAA is a Star Alliance member providing SAA passengers access to an unparalleled global route network, including 20 destinations across the African continent.

SAA will operate its Airbus A340-600 long-haul aircraft on the route, non-stop with flying time clocking in at approximately 15 hours.

 

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