Tianjin Airlines launched a new non-stop service from Auckland (AKL) to Chongqing (CKG) and Tianjin (TSN), marking the first flight from Auckland to the major Chinese cities.

“This route strengthens Tianjin Airlines’ foreign hub, which is playing a significant strategic role in our ongoing growth plans. This year alone we have launched more than 10 new international destinations, including London, Moscow, Osaka and Phuket. Tianjin Airlines’ Auckland-Chongqing-Tianjin route will open a new pathway for New Zealand tourism, giving more New Zealanders the opportunity to enjoy the many attractions China has to offer,” said Li Wenbin, market director, Tianjin Airlines.

The new flights were scheduled for convenient connections through Tianjin’s network and with the high-speed rail in China, making it easy for travellers to transfer from Chongqin and Tianjin to other Chinese cities, including Chengdu (CTU), Beijing (PEK) and Shanghai (PVG).

The outbound flight is scheduled to depart from Auckland Airport every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 21:30, arriving at Chongqing at 5:45 the following morning, a 12.5-hour flight time. After a three-hour layover, it will depart at 8:40 and arrive at Tianjin at 11:05. The return flight departs from Tianjin at 20:10 and arrives at Chongqing at 23:00. After a three-hour layover, it will depart at 1:00 and arrive at Auckland at 18:30.

The service will operate three times a week using a 260-seat Airbus A330 aircraft, with 18 business-class seats and 142 economy. All passengers can enjoy personal in-flight entertainment throughout the flight.