The direct flight linking East China's Shanghai and Georgia's capital city of Tbilisi was launched on July 15 by China Eastern Airlines, becoming the first direct route connecting the Yangtze River Delta region and Georgia. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The direct flight linking East China's Shanghai and Georgia's capital city of Tbilisi was launched on Wednesday by China Eastern Airlines, becoming the first direct route connecting the Yangtze River Delta region and Georgia, according to the Shanghai-based carrier.
The Shanghai-Tbilisi route marks the first wide-body aircraft service between the two countries and is expected to create a more convenient link for business, cultural, and tourism exchanges between China and Georgia.
The direct flight linking East China's Shanghai and Georgia's capital city of Tbilisi was launched on July 15 by China Eastern Airlines, becoming the first direct route connecting the Yangtze River Delta region and Georgia. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The new route operates three times a week, departing Shanghai Pudong International Airport every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and returning from Tbilisi later the same day, with the one-way journey taking about nine hours.
Flight MU285, operated by China Eastern Airlines arrives at Tbilisi International Airport, Georgia, on July 15. [Photo/Xinhua]
As the capital of Georgia, Tbilisi is the center of politics, economy, culture, and education of the country. As an important gateway connecting Europe and Asia, Tbilisi is also a key city in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
The launch of the Shanghai-Tbilisi route is expected to complement China Eastern's existing network across Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus region, further enhancing Shanghai's role as an international aviation hub. The new service will also strengthen the carrier's Eurasian connectivity by facilitating business and cultural exchanges, international travel, and regional cooperation.
