Hainan Airlines has announced a major expansion of its European network with the launch of a new nonstop service between Brussels and Chongqing, further strengthening its footprint on the continent. The move positions Brussels as a key European gateway for the airline, connecting Belgium more deeply with China’s rapidly developing western regions.
A Strategic New Connection
Set to commence on 22 November 2025, the route will operate three times weekly using Hainan’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The new link joins existing services from Brussels to Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, bringing Hainan’s total number of direct connections between China and Belgium to four.
Brussels Airport’s aviation development team described the addition as a “milestone in deepening air connectivity between China and Europe,” highlighting the growing importance of Chongqing as a centre for trade, logistics, and manufacturing.
The new route is expected to provide faster access for European businesses to China’s inland markets, while also offering Chinese passengers a new hub for travel into the heart of Europe.
Brussels: A Growing Hub for China–Europe Air Traffic
Hainan Airlines now accounts for the vast majority of seat capacity between Belgium and China, operating nearly 77 % of all available seats on this corridor. The expansion underscores Brussels’ emergence as one of Europe’s most strategically positioned airports for Chinese traffic, offering direct access to major commercial centres across both continents.
The addition of Chongqing also complements Hainan’s broader European strategy, which focuses on connecting secondary Chinese cities with Europe’s key business hubs. The airline has continued to capitalise on efficient routing options and rising post-pandemic demand for business and tourism travel.
Chongqing’s Expanding Global Profile
For Chongqing, this new connection marks another step in its ascent as a global gateway city. The metropolis, one of China’s fastest-growing economic zones, has seen rapid industrial and infrastructure growth in recent years, particularly within advanced manufacturing and logistics.
Officials at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport noted that international passenger traffic has climbed sharply, with foreign travellers now representing nearly one-third of total passenger volume. The new Brussels route will further elevate the airport’s status as a hub linking western China with international destinations.
Challenges and Outlook
While the expansion highlights strong demand and confidence, several challenges remain. Sustaining high load factors will be key, particularly as competition among Chinese and European carriers intensifies. The balance between business and leisure travel will also determine long-term profitability.
Nevertheless, aviation analysts view the move as a positive step. With Europe continuing to diversify its air links to China beyond traditional coastal cities, and China seeking to boost international connectivity for its interior provinces, the Brussels–Chongqing route is well-timed.
A Symbol of Renewed Confidence
Hainan Airlines’ investment in its Brussels hub demonstrates a broader resurgence in long-haul travel between China and Europe. As markets stabilise and demand for cross-continental travel rebounds, the airline’s decision reflects both commercial opportunity and strategic foresight.
For passengers, it promises greater convenience; for both nations, it represents renewed connectivity between two of the world’s most dynamic economies.