China Southern Airlines, a leading carrier in the world’s second-largest economy, is set to launch its first-ever direct passenger flight from Shenzhen, China, to Mexico City, Mexico. This route marks a significant expansion in China’s international aviation presence.
Announced as the longest nonstop regular commercial flight from China, the new route aims to broaden the nation’s influence in the global aviation sector. The flight will span a remarkable 14,147 kilometres each way and take about 16 hours to travel from Shenzhen. The inaugural flight is scheduled for Tuesday, May 11, with subsequent departures planned for Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The return journey will take approximately 21 hours and 20 minutes, including a brief refuelling stop in Tijuana, Mexico, where passengers will remain on board. Flights from Mexico to China will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays starting May 12.
As per details from SZ News, a state-affiliated outlet in Shenzhen, the service will operate under flight code CZ8031/2 and utilize Airbus A350 aircraft.
This new venture surpasses the airline’s longest route from Guangzhou to New York, which covers 12,871 kilometres, setting a new record for the longest nonstop commercial flight departing from a Chinese airport.