China Southern Airlines has announced the inauguration of a new direct flight connecting Guangzhou, China, to Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. This development marks the first regular commercial route from mainland China to a South Pacific island nation, a significant step in fostering economic, trade, cultural, and tourism exchanges.
Papua New Guinea, a key player in the “One Belt, One Road” initiative, stands as China’s third largest trading partner. The new route underscores the growing importance of these bilateral relations. Port Moresby, the largest city and the cultural, political, and economic hub of Papua New Guinea, is poised to become a central point in this enhanced connectivity.
The service, commencing on December 20, will deploy Boeing 737-8 aircraft, with flights scheduled once weekly. Departures from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport are slated for 01:00 Beijing time every Wednesday, arriving in Port Moresby at 10:15 local time. Return flights will leave Port Moresby every Thursday at 09:00 local time, reaching Guangzhou at 14:15 Beijing time. The round trip duration is approximately 7 hours and 15 minutes. Notably, to accommodate the Christmas holiday season, the inaugural flight will be operated using a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, catering to the needs of local Chinese and overseas Chinese visiting relatives.
Convenient Transfer Connections at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
China Southern Airlines is facilitating seamless travel connections for passengers from Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and other cities, enabling two-way transfers at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport within a three-hour window. Similarly, connections from Xiamen, Fuzhou, and additional locations can be achieved within five hours. Upon arrival in Port Moresby, travelers will have smooth access to local airlines for onward journeys to other destinations in the region, including the Solomon Islands and Fiji.
Exclusive Overnight Accommodation Offer for Transit Passengers
Additionally, the airline is offering a special service for passengers meeting specific flight transfer and cabin requirements. This includes a complimentary one-night hotel stay, inclusive of breakfast and airport-hotel transfers, for those transiting through Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. This provision offers an opportunity for travelers to explore Guangzhou or visit friends and relatives during their layover. Furthermore, the airline’s “Global Secondary Card” program, which includes discounted round-trip tickets and airport transfer coupons, extends to this new route, providing added benefits to passengers.
For more details on these services, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the China Southern Airlines website or mobile app.