South African Airways
(SAA) says it is commencing non-stop flights to Beijing, China, for
the first time in the history of the airline. According to the
airline, SAA will operate the route non-stop three times a week
with its A340-600 long haul aircraft, from February 1, 2012. "SAA
is most pleased to introduce non-stop flights to Beijing, China.
This new route is in line with SAA's strategy to expand its network
to Asia, the fastest growing market in the world," says SAA's CEO,
Ms. Siza Mzimela.
"Introducing direct flights between
China and South Africa will promote tourism and trade, not only to
South Africa, but also to all the Southern African Development
Community (SADC) and other African countries. South Africa and
neighbouring destinations such as Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe are
already popular destinations for Chinese tourists. "Similarly, for
South Africans and other African countries, the flight will open up
China as a new tourist destination and create a bridge between
South America and China, connecting three very important BRICS
(Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries and
promoting trade amongst these countries," adds Ms. Mzimela. SAA
notes further that Beijing Capital International Airport (BJS) is
the main international airport serving Beijing, China and one of
the busiest airports in the world. There are three terminals at the
airport and SAA will operate in and out of terminal three, which is
also the designated terminal for Star Alliance partners.