Asian air route updates: Air Canada, AirAsia, Air China and more

Air Canada launches Montreal-Shanghai

Where? Montreal (Canada) to Shanghai (China)
When? Daily, effective immediately
Who? Air Canada
Why? National carrier continues to expand international operations, using new fuel-efficient Dreamliner aircraft to tap previously unprofitable routes
Anything else? This becomes the longest flight ever operated by any carrier from Montreal’s Trudeau airport.

Pattaya gets new regional Thai connection

Where? Pattaya to Ubon Ratchathani (both Thailand)
When? Daily, effective 30 March 2017
Who? Thai AirAsia
Why? Strengthening regional traffic in Thailand, allowing passengers to travel across the country without transiting in Bangkok
Anything else? Ubon Ratchathani province is home to Thailand’s easternmost point and the place where the country’s two longest rivers – the Mekong and the Mun – converge

AirAsia expands links between east and west Malaysia

Where? Johor Bahru to Tawau (both Malaysia)
When? Four times a week, effective 28 April 2017
Who? AirAsia Malaysia
Why? Strengthening connectivity between eastern and Peninsular Malaysia. AirAsia will become the first airline to operate this route
Anything else? Blair Witch Project fans take note; Tawau Hills National Park is said to be haunted. More than 50 people are reported to have gone missing in the park

Air China adds second Barcelona route

Where? Shanghai (China) to Barcelona (Spain)
When? Three times a week, effective 5 May 2017
Who? Air China
Why? Airline continues to expand long-haul links, taking advantage of growing appetite for Chinese outbound travel to Spain
Anything else? Cathay Pacific, Iberia and China Eastern all added routes between Spain and Greater China in 2016, with Beijing Capital Airlines to follow this year