China Eastern opens Xi'an–Istanbul direct flights, boosting Belt-Road connectivity

(ECNS) -- China Eastern Airlines is expanding its reach to Türkiye with a new direct route between Xi'an and Istanbul, set to begin June 24. The launch follows the success of its Shanghai–Istanbul connection and further strengthens connectivity along the Belt and Road corridor.

Operating three times a week—on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—the flights (MU5025/5026) will offer passengers a 10-hour, non-stop journey linking northwestern China with one of Eurasia’s key commercial and cultural hubs.

The outbound flight departs Xi'an Xianyang International Airport at 1:50 a.m. and touches down in Istanbul at 7:00 a.m. local time. The return leg leaves Istanbul at 11:00 a.m. and lands in Xi'an early the next day at 1:25 a.m.

China is Türkiye's largest trading partner in Asia, with close daily economic and trade exchanges between the two countries. The launch of this route would significantly facilitate trade, economic cooperation, and cultural exchanges between China's northwestern region and Türkiye, as well as neighboring European and Middle Eastern countries. Tickets for this route are now available for purchase.