Dublin Airport welcomes the commencement by China Eastern Airlines of a new non-stop service between Dublin and Shanghai, providing Ireland with its first direct connection to China’s largest city and one of Asia’s leading economic and cultural centres.

The new three-times-weekly service commenced this morning, using China Eastern’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The inbound flight, MU231, landed at Dublin Airport shortly after 07.30, while the inaugural outbound flight (MU232) to Shanghai departed around 11.30.

The new route represents a significant milestone for Dublin Airport, becoming its longest-ever scheduled non-stop service and further strengthening Ireland’s connectivity with one of the world’s most important aviation markets.

The service is expected to boost tourism, trade, inward investment, education and cultural links between Ireland and China, while also providing convenient onward connections across China and the Asia-Pacific region through China Eastern’s hub at Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

According to Nick Cole, Deputy CEO of daa, the operator of Dublin Airport: "We’re delighted to welcome China Eastern to Dublin Airport and to celebrate the launch of this exciting new direct service to Shanghai. This route is a significant addition to Dublin Airport’s long-haul network and reinforces our commitment to improving connectivity between Ireland and key global markets. China is an increasingly important market for tourism, business, education and trade, and this new service will create new opportunities for travellers in both directions while making it easier than ever for visitors from China to experience everything Ireland has to offer."

According to Wang Zhiqing, Chairman of China Easter Airlines: “The A350 aircraft of China Eastern Airlines travelled a great distance and finally landed at the beautiful Dublin Airport. It marks the successful inaugural flight of Shanghai–Dublin. It also signifies a new, convenient, and efficient air corridor between China and Ireland. Aviation connects cities, carries friendship, and promotes cooperation. China Eastern Airlines is ready to take this new route as a bond to work closer with Irish partners from all fields. We hope that this route across Eurasia will serve as an important bridge, connecting people of two countries.”

China Eastern is one of China’s leading international airlines and a member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance. Headquartered in Shanghai, the airline operates an extensive global network spanning Europe, Asia, Oceania, North America, South America and the Middle East, connecting millions of passengers each year.

About the A350-900 aircraft

China Eastern will operate the route using its modern Airbus A350-900, one of the world’s most advanced and fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft. Compared with previous-generation aircraft, the A350 consumes around 25% less fuel and produces up to 25% fewer carbon emissions, while offering passengers a quieter cabin, larger windows, improved air quality and enhanced comfort on long-haul journeys.

• Passengers travelling on the Dublin–Shanghai service will be able to choose from three cabin classes:

• Business Class with fully flat-bed seats.

• Premium Economy offering additional space and comfort.

• Economy Class featuring ergonomically designed seating and advanced in-flight entertainment.

The airline also recently introduced complimentary WiFi across its wide-body fleet, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey.

About Shanghai

Shanghai, home to more than 25 million people, is China’s financial capital and one of Asia’s most vibrant international destinations. The city combines world-famous attractions such as The Bund, Yu Garden and the modern skyline of Lujiazui with outstanding shopping, dining and cultural experiences.

The new service will also provide seamless onward connections through Shanghai to destinations across China and the Asia-Pacific region, including Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Kunming, Tokyo, Seoul, Bangkok and Bali.

The launch also comes as travel to China becomes increasingly accessible for Irish travellers, with Irish passport holders now eligible for visa-free entry to China for stays of up to 30 days.