Baku: Discussions to enhance air connectivity between Azerbaijan and China have taken a significant step forward following a high-level meeting in Baku. Samir Rzayev, President of Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL), and Ding Tao, the Chargé d’Affaires of China in Azerbaijan, deliberated on increasing flight frequencies and opening new routes to major Chinese cities.

According to Trend News Agency, the discussion centered on the ongoing development of air traffic between the two nations, reflecting the rising passenger traffic observed in recent years. Currently, AZAL operates two weekly flights on the Baku-Beijing-Baku route. Plans are underway to increase this frequency to three weekly flights by 2025 to accommodate the growing demand.

Further, the meeting addressed potential expansions in AZAL’s flight operations within China, considering new direct routes to significant urban centers such as Guangzhou and Shanghai. The inclusion of these cities would not only bolster bilateral ties but also enhance travel c
onveniences for passengers.

The talks also highlighted the strategic importance of Baku as a pivotal transit hub linking China and Europe. An increase in air traffic is anticipated to not only boost tourism but also strengthen Azerbaijan’s role in global passenger and cargo transport networks.