Where? Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) to Jeddah (Saudi Arabia)
When? Twice a week, effective 21 February 2017
Who? Malindo Air
Why? Islamic pilgrimage traffic from Malaysia and tourist demand from Saudi nationals
Anything else? At approximately 7,000km, this will be one of the longest routes operated by a Boeing 737. And “extended range” model will be used.
Where? Beijing (China) to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
When? Daily, effective 17 March 2017
Who? China Southern Airlines
Why? China’s largest airline expands operations from capital city, where rival Air China is dominant
Anything else? This will become China Southern’s first route connecting Beijing with Southeast Asia
Vietjet links Central Vietnam with Seoul
Where? Danang (Vietnam) to Seoul (South Korea)
When? Daily, effective 31 May 2017
Who? Vietjet Air
Why? A key new route for Vietnam’s central coast, targeting rising number of Korean visitors
Anything else? More than 15% of all international visitors to Vietnam in 2016 were Korean
Where? Beijing (China) to Astana, pictured (Kazakhstan)
When? Twice a week, effective 1 June 2017
Who? Air China
Why? New direct connection between capitals of friendly neighbouring Asian countries
Anything else? Kazakhstan’s national carrier, Air Astana, is currently the only airline flying direct between the two capitals
