Here’s our weekly roundup of new air routes and codeshare partnerships
Xiamen Airlines debuts Quanzhou-Kuala Lumpur service
Tourism Malaysia has welcomed the launch of Xiamen Airlines’ inaugural direct flight connecting Quanzhou and Kuala Lumpur. The route operates four times a week with a Boeing 737, accommodating 169 passengers per flight, with eight in business class and 161 in economy.
The new service strengthens air connectivity between Malaysia and southern China, supporting tourism, trade and cultural exchange. The route offers Chinese travellers convenient access to Malaysia’s urban destinations, islands, culinary offerings and heritage towns, complementing the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
Emirates increases Egypt connectivity
Emirates will add six weekly frequencies on its Dubai–Cairo route from December 1, 2025, to meet rising demand during the peak winter season. The schedule is designed to maximise connections with the airline’s global network.
From February 1, 2026, the service will operate daily, complementing the existing four daily flights. Operated by a Boeing 777, the route offers seamless connections to key destinations in Asia, including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.
Cairo remains a key market for Emirates and currently hosts the highest A380 deployment in the Middle East and North Africa outside Dubai. The fifth daily flight will make it the airline’s most served African city.
Hong Kong Airlines resumes Hanoi flights
Hong Kong Airlines will restart its daily direct service between Hong Kong and Hanoi, Vietnam, on December 19, 2025.
The route reinforces the airline’s connectivity across South-east Asia and its commitment to the Belt and Road region by facilitating trade and cultural exchange. It will also enhance onward connections through Hong Kong to destinations including Vancouver, Sydney, and Melbourne, supporting the city’s position as a key international aviation hub.
Air New Zealand launches Christchurch-Adelaide route
Air New Zealand has launched its first Christchurch-Adelaide service, marking a new milestone in its trans-Tasman network. The inaugural flight departed Christchurch on October 27, linking New Zealand’s South Island directly with South Australia for the first time.
The seasonal service operates twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays until March 27, 2026, offering around 15,000 seats across the season. Operated by an Airbus narrowbody aircraft, the route provides South Island travellers with greater convenience when flying to Australia while opening opportunities for more Australian visitors to explore the South Island’s key destinations.
