Air China, a member of the Star Alliance network, has announced the launch of a new international route connecting Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, to Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport. This new route will commence on September 5, 2024, offering travelers enhanced connectivity between Western China and Russia.
The route will be operated by Air China Inner Mongolia, utilizing Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with three weekly flights on this important international link. This move signifies a strategic step in Air China’s strategy to enhance international connectivity from the Xinjiang region. Urumqi, a key hub in Western China, serves as a gateway between China and Central Asia. By adding Moscow to its international destinations, Air China aims to cater to the growing demand for travel between China and Russia, fueled by increasing economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges between the two nations.
The route will operate three times a week, with flights scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. The outbound flight, CA713, will depart from Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) at 17:55 local time, arriving at Moscow Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) at 19:10 local time on Mondays and Wednesdays, and at 19:05 local time on Saturdays. The return flight, CA714, will depart from Moscow at 21:25 local time and arrive in Urumqi at 07:30 the following morning. This schedule is designed to offer convenient connections for passengers traveling between the two cities, accommodating both business and leisure travelers.
The introduction of the Urumqi-Moscow route is expected to further strengthen the ties between China and Russia. In recent years, the relationship between the two countries has witnessed significant growth, particularly in the areas of trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The new route will facilitate easier access for Chinese and Russian travelers, promoting greater interaction and cooperation between the two nations.
For Urumqi, this route represents a strategic enhancement of its role as an international aviation hub. The city is already a critical point of connection for flights between China and Central Asia, and the addition of Moscow to its network will solidify its position as a key gateway in the region. This move is also in line with China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to enhance connectivity and cooperation across Eurasia.
Air China has long been committed to expanding its international route network, offering passengers more choices and greater convenience when traveling abroad. The addition of the Urumqi-Moscow route is part of the airline’s broader strategy to increase its presence in key international markets and enhance its service offerings for global travelers.
The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which will be used for the Urumqi-Moscow flights, is well-suited for this route, offering a comfortable and efficient travel experience. With a seating capacity of approximately 160 passengers, the aircraft is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant journey for all passengers.
As the airline prepares for the launch of this new route, Air China is confident that it will meet the needs of travelers seeking to explore new opportunities in both China and Russia. Whether for business, tourism, or cultural exchange, the Urumqi-Moscow route is poised to become a vital link between these two dynamic regions.
With the Urumqi-Moscow route scheduled to begin operations in September 2024, Air China continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing world-class service and expanding its global network. This new route will not only enhance connectivity between China and Russia but also contribute to the economic and cultural exchanges that are vital to the growth of both nations.
