Hainan FTP launches first seventh-freedom air route

(ECNS) -- Hainan Free Trade Port on Sunday launched its first operational seventh-freedom air route, a milestone in opening up the island's aviation sector.

Flight DV481 departed Sanya Phoenix International Airport for Prague, Czech Republic, becoming the first seventh-freedom route to enter service under the Hainan Free Trade Port framework. The route is operated by Kazakhstan's SCAT Airlines using a Boeing 737 MAX 9, with one round-trip flight scheduled each week.

This type of route allows an airline to fly between two foreign countries without needing to touch its home country, essentially operating a direct, non-stop service between two third-party nations.

China's master plan for the Hainan Free Trade Port calls for a more open aviation policy, including pilot programs for seventh-freedom rights. Local authorities say the new route enhances Hainan's role as an international aviation hub and promotes economic and cultural exchanges between regions.

(By Evelyn)