Domestic routes to expand in winter 2026-2027

Chinese airlines plan to launch 288 new domestic routes during the winter 2026-2027 season, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). These routes will be operated by 34 carriers and will run from October 25 to March 27, 2027, aiming to improve regional connectivity and link major cities with tourist spots.

Winter tourism a key focus

The new domestic routes are part of an effort to boost winter tourism in China. Key attractions include Hainan’s beaches and Xinjiang’s ski resorts. The CAAC reported that 216 Chinese and foreign airlines will operate around 116,000 passenger and freight flights per week during the seasonal program, including the new domestic routes.

International expansion grows

The winter program includes 16,654 international passenger flights per week, connecting China to 84 countries. This covers 17 new countries, such as Kazakhstan, India, and Canada, marking a 40% increase in international coverage compared to the previous year. New routes to Iceland, Madagascar, and Jordan are also part of the expansion.

Key airports see increased traffic

Beijing Capital International Airport will handle an average of 252 international and regional passenger flights per day during the winter season, an increase of 39 flights compared to the previous year. Airlines like Air China and China Southern Airlines are expanding their international networks, with new routes to Australia, New Zealand, and other destinations.

Growth remains slow despite expansion

Despite the increase in flight routes, the Chinese civil aviation sector is facing challenges, including limited passenger traffic growth. In the first half of 2026, the sector transported about 380 million passengers, a 1% increase year-on-year. High oil prices have significantly increased operating costs in the second quarter of 2026, according to an official report.