Chinese carrier Juneyao Airlines has announced plans to launch new direct flights between Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport (PVG).
The thrice-weekly flights will commence on December 19, 2024, and will be operated using the carrier’s flagship Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Flight schedules will increase to daily during the peak holiday season in January and February 2025.
The aircraft features 29 business class seats and 295 economy class seats.
The flights are scheduled to operate on the following times:
- Flight HO1655 departing SHANGHAI (PVG)1730 local time arriving MELBOURNE 07:00 local time the following day
- Flight HO1656 departing MELBOURNE 09:00 local time arriving SHANGHAI 16:10 local time
Melbourne Airport said the new airline addition will require an investment in projects such as an international baggage system upgrade and a third runway.
“Juneyao Airlines’ choice of Melbourne as their first Australian destination is a strong vote of confidence in Victoria,” said Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus.
While not yet confirmed, airline network site AeroRoutes reported that the Shanghai-based carrier also plans to launch flights to Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) by December 2024.
