09 Oct 2025
#2 October 2025: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
Astral Aviation connects Haikou and Johannesburg
Astral Aviation has launched its inaugural freighter service between Haikou, China, and Johannesburg, South Africa, operated by a Boeing 767-300 Freighter. The new route is expected to significantly enhance the flow of goods between Asia and Africa, particularly in e-commerce, electronics, textiles, perishables, and raw materials.
Astral Aviation CEO Sanjeev Gadhia said:
“The launch of the Haikou–Johannesburg service represents more than just a new route — it is a bridge between China and Africa that will facilitate trade, investment, and economic growth. We are proud to play a role in unlocking the immense potential of this corridor.”
Cathay Pacific announces Hong Kong - Changsha route
Cathay Pacific announced it will launch daily non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Changsha commencing 4th November. Changsha will be the fifth Chinese Mainland destination added by the Cathay Group in 2025, bringing its overall Chinese Mainland network to 24 destinations and enabling connectivity to Cathay Group’s global network covering more than 100 destinations worldwide.
Cathay CEO Ronald Lam said:
“We are excited to introduce non-stop flights between Hong Kong and Changsha, establishing an important bridge that fosters trade and cultural exchange between Hunan and the rest of the world via our Hong Kong hub. With Changsha as our 24th destination in the Chinese Mainland, we are doubling down on our promise of greater choice, convenience and connectivity for our customers.”
Hainan Airlines announces Brussels–Chongqing route
Hainan Airlines announced it will launch a new route between Brussels and Chongqing starting November 22, 2025, further enhancing its Belgium–China network. The carrier already connects Brussels with Beijing, Shenzhen, and Shanghai, with services operated by a two-class Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
Acumen’s Take
On Astral Aviation’s Haikou–Johannesburg Launch
This move demonstrates the strategic importance of air cargo in strengthening South–South trade corridors. With Haikou emerging as a logistics hub and Africa seeing growing e-commerce demand, this route taps into untapped bilateral trade potential. It’s also a signal of shifting air freight flows beyond traditional gateways like Beijing or Shanghai.
On Cathay Pacific’s Hong Kong–Changsha Route
Cathay’s expansion into secondary Chinese cities like Changsha reflects renewed focus on intermodal connectivity and regional trade facilitation. As Cathay rebuilds post-pandemic, routes like this serve to solidify Hong Kong’s position as a transshipment and connectivity hub for South China.
On Hainan Airlines’ Brussels–Chongqing Service
Hainan Airlines continues to strengthen China-Europe connectivity from Tier 2 cities like Chongqing, reinforcing the strategic role of western Chinese cities in Belt and Road logistics. The expansion not only diversifies the European gateways but also aligns with China's push to internationalise the interior provinces.
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