Today, YVR welcomed Sichuan Airlines’ inaugural flight to North America from inland China. This new service, between Vancouver International Airport and Chengdu, via Shenyang, will operate three times per week and is North America’s only direct flight to China’s interior, offering passengers more options and creating greater opportunities for business and tourism.
The flight was welcomed by water arch salute from our Emergency Response Services team, and passengers, media and dignitaries were given a special welcome as they emerged from the aircraft.
You may have never heard of Chengdu or Shenyang before, but both are important economic, transportation and commercial hubs. Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is home to 14 million people and the famous Giant Panda. Shenyang, the capital of Liaoning Province, has a population of 8.1 million and is one of the ten largest cities in China.
Sichuan Airlines’ service to and from YVR will use an Airbus 330 aircraft with capacity for 245 passengers and flights will operate on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.