Emirates has inaugurated a new daily flight service to Hangzhou, marking its fifth destination in mainland China.
This launch, following closely on the heels of a new route to Shenzhen, underscores the airline’s rapid expansion in the region.
On July 30, flight EK310 touched down at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute and warm hospitality from local officials and dignitaries.
Passengers on this inaugural flight from Dubai received special mementos, including keychains, certificates, and Chinese tea tasting sets, to celebrate the milestone.
The first flight carried travellers from diverse markets such as the UAE, Nigeria, Italy, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Brazil.
A VIP delegation, led by Emirates’ senior management, joined international media representatives to mark the occasion.
Hangzhou Becomes 5th Mainland China Gateway
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the significance of this expansion.
“China is a global aviation powerhouse, and Emirates is thrilled to contribute to its growth. Launching two new routes in under a month reflects our strong commitment to mainland China and the momentum of our East and Southeast Asia strategy.”
“With growing demand, we’re confident our network will continue to connect people, businesses, and economies across Asia and beyond.”
Kazim also expressed gratitude to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, and local partners for their support in making this route a reality.
Flight Details & Scheduling
The Dubai–Hangzhou route features a Boeing 777-300ER with 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 304 Economy Class seats.
Passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning ice entertainment system, offering over 6,500 channels in more than 40 languages, including Chinese.
The onboard dining experience includes regionally inspired menus with popular Chinese dishes and desserts, ensuring a delightful journey.
The new service departs Dubai at 9:40 AM and arrives in Hangzhou at 10:00 PM. The return flight, EK311, leaves Hangzhou at 12:10 AM, landing in Dubai at 4:55 AM.
This schedule offers easy connections for passengers traveling from 40 European cities, 21 African destinations, 13 Middle Eastern locations, and countries like Brazil and Argentina to Hangzhou via Dubai.
Similarly, travellers from Hangzhou can easily reach key cities such as Istanbul, Barcelona, Cairo, and Johannesburg.
Enhanced Cargo Solutions
The Boeing 777-300ER provides up to 16 tonnes of bellyhold cargo capacity per flight, facilitating the swift transport of time-sensitive goods like e-commerce products, pharmaceuticals, and smart devices.
Hangzhou, a global hub for cross-border e-commerce, boasts a robust digital trade ecosystem and advanced logistics infrastructure.
This makes it a vital gateway for Chinese brands expanding internationally. Emirates SkyCargo has a vast network spanning six continents. Its efficient Dubai hub supports this network.
Goods from Hangzhou and the Yangtze River Delta benefit from this system. They can reach emerging markets quickly.
These markets include the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Latin America. Delivery times are reduced. This strengthens global supply chains.
Emirates’ Growing Presence in China
With the addition of Hangzhou, Emirates now operates 49 weekly flights to five major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou.
The airline has also introduced its signature complimentary chauffeur-drive service for First and Business Class passengers in Hangzhou.
This luxury offering, available in over 70 cities worldwide, including Beijing, Shanghai, London, and Dubai. It provides eligible passengers with free transfers within an 80-kilometer radius of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport in Mercedes-Benz E-Class vehicles.
Emirates enhances connectivity across China through interline and codeshare agreements. Arrangements with China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Sichuan Airlines provide access to destinations beyond its own network.
Last year, Emirates signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UAE China Cultural Centre to showcase China as a top destination across its global network.
Conclusion
The new Hangzhou route strengthens Emirates’ air corridor for trade, tourism, and digital exchanges between China, the Middle East, and beyond.
It opens new opportunities for Chinese brands to reach global audiences while offering Emirates’ passengers better access to Hangzhou’s thriving tech hub.
As Emirates continues to expand its footprint in China, this route promises to foster stronger economic and cultural ties.
