GLASGOW AIRPORT WELCOMES MOVES TO INCREASE FLIGHTS BETWEEN UK AND CHINA
Glasgow Airport has welcomed news that the UK and China have agreed to more than double the number of flights allowed to operate between the two countries, following successful negotiations in London today (11 October 2016).
Under the new deal passenger flights can now increase from the current maximum of 40 per week for each nation to up to 100. There will be no limit on the number of all-cargo services, creating new opportunities for UK trade and businesses.
A restriction on the number of destinations that airlines can serve has also been lifted, meaning services can be operated between any point in the UK and any point in China. Up until now, airlines could only serve six destinations in each country.
Francois Bourienne, commercial director at Glasgow Airport, said: “Today’s announcement is an important step towards Scotland securing a direct flight to China. The commitment to increase the number of services will make it easier for Chinese carriers to establish new services and as the economic powerhouse of Scotland we believe Glasgow is best placed for a direct link.
“Glasgow is home to the largest Chinese community in Scotland and welcomes more than 4,000 Chinese students every year. A number of major Scottish businesses have a presence in China and we will be liaising with the Chinese airlines to state the case for a direct service to Scotland’s largest city.”
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “This deal is a big moment for the UK. Strong connections with emerging markets like China are vital for us if we are to continue competing on the global economic stage. Hundreds of thousands of Chinese people visit the UK every year, spending hundreds of millions of pounds. Raising the number of permitted flights between the 2 countries will provide massive opportunities for our businesses, helping increase trade, create jobs and boost our economy up and down the country.”