The return of Sichuan Airlines flights between Chengdu, China, and Auckland is expected to bring an additional 22,000 visitors to New Zealand each year. Photo: Supplied
Sichuan Airlines has confirmed the return of nonstop flights between Chengdu, China, and Auckland in early December, offering year-round service.
Beginning 7 December, the carrier will operate two flights a week using its fleet of A350s, a schedule expected to bring an additional 22,000 visitors to New Zealand each year.
It will become the sixth airline flying between Auckland and China, alongside Air China, Air New Zealand, China Eastern, China Southern and Hainan Airlines.
The Sichuan route is projected to generate about $130 million in annual tourism spending and provide up to $150 million in cargo capacity for New Zealand exports and imports.
China was once New Zealand's second-largest overseas visitor market, contributing more than $1.7 billion to New Zealand's economy in 2019.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said China was crucial to unlocking the country's economic growth and tourism potential.
"This new service will strengthen airline connectivity for both tourism and business between New Zealand and China," she said. "Improved aviation connectivity is an important part of our tourism growth roadmap."
Scott Tasker, chief customer officer at Auckland Airport, said the return of Sichuan Airlines would give travellers more options, reconnect Auckland with an important visitor market and provide exporters with additional cargo capacity.
Up to 50 flights linking Auckland and China would operate each week with the introduction of the new service, Tasker said.
"This year-round service will make it easier for visitors from Sichuan province and beyond to experience all that New Zealand has to offer - from our natural beauty and adventure tourism to our unique Māori culture and world-class hospitality," Tasker said.
"At the same time, it opens a new gateway for Kiwis to explore one of China's most fascinating regions."
Kevin Wen, regional director of Australia and New Zealand for Sichuan Airlines, said the airline had "long valued the New Zealand market".
"We've worked closely with Auckland Airport to restart this important route and build a convenient, efficient air bridge for travellers," Wen said.
"Looking ahead, we'll continue to deliver high-quality products and thoughtful service, adding warmth to every journey."
Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, is a city of 20 million known for its vibrant food culture, fiery cuisine and status as the home of the giant panda.
Sichuan Airlines operates from the new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, a major aviation hub that opened in 2021.
From there, travellers can connect to the airline's network of 76 domestic cities and 28 international destinations across Asia and beyond.
