Sichuan Airlines boosts AKL’s connectivity to China

• Non-stop flights resume 7 December 2025 – two per week, year-round on the Airbus A350
• Auckland Airport’s China network grows to 6 airlines, 8 destinations
• Service expected to bring 22,000 extra visitors and $130m in annual tourism spend
• Up to $150m of cargo capacity for New Zealand exports and imports
• Part of up to 50 weekly flights linking Auckland and China this summer

Year-round connectivity to Chengdu is coming to Auckland Airport with the arrival of Sichuan Airlines in early December.

From 7 December, the airline will operate two flights per week, doubling the seasonal schedule it operated last summer.

Auckland Airport Chief Customer Officer, Scott Tasker said having Sichuan Airlines back with a year-round schedule is fantastic news, stepping up from last summer’s once-a-week service.

“This announcement cements Chengdu as our eighth mainland Chinese destination, bringing more options for travellers, reconnects Auckland with an important visitor source region and supports exporters with extra bellyhold capacity. Over the coming summer, we expect up to 50 flights a week will connect Auckland with China.”

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth and tourism, as our second largest export sector, is a crucial part of that.

“This new service will strengthen airline connectivity for both tourism and business between New Zealand and China. Improved aviation connectivity is an important component in our Tourism Growth Roadmap, and I congratulate Auckland Airport and Sichuan Airlines for making this happen.”

Kevin Wen, Regional Director Australia & New Zealand, Sichuan Airlines, said: “We’re delighted to confirm Sichuan Airlines will resume non-stop Chengdu–Auckland services from 7 December, operated by our Airbus A350.

“Sichuan Airlines has long valued the New Zealand market. We’ve worked closely with Auckland Airport to restart this important route and build a convenient, efficient air bridge for travellers. Looking ahead, we’ll continue to deliver high-quality products and thoughtful service, adding warmth to every journey. We look forward to reuniting across the mountains and seas with our customers in New Zealand.”

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a city of 20 million people renowned for its vibrant food culture, spicy Sichuan cuisine and as the home of the giant panda.

Mr Tasker said the new service is expected to bring around 22,000 additional visitors to New Zealand annually, delivering an estimated $130 million in visitor spend – a boost for local tourism operators and regional economies.

“This year-round service will make it easier for visitors from Sichuan Province and beyond to experience all that New Zealand has to offer – from our natural beauty and adventure tourism to our unique Māori culture and world-class hospitality. At the same time, it opens a new gateway for Kiwis to explore one of China’s most fascinating regions.

Direct flights are also critical for high-value trade. Auckland Airport estimates the service could support up to $150 million of annual cargo capacity, carrying premium New Zealand exports such as fresh seafood, fruit and flowers into China, while enabling the fast movement of consumer goods and manufactured products into New Zealand.

“We’re delighted to welcome Sichuan Airlines’ commitment to Auckland and the opportunity it brings for our tourism and trade connections,” said Mr Tasker.

Sichuan Airlines operates from the new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, an aviation hub opened in 2021. From here, travellers can connect with the airline’s extensive network of 76 domestic Chinese cities and 28 international destinations across Asia and beyond.