China Eastern Airlines Launches Direct Shanghai-Zurich Service

China Eastern Airlines inaugurated direct flights between Shanghai and Zurich, Switzerland, with the inaugural Airbus A350-900 touching down at Zurich Airport on June 19, 2026. The aircraft carried more than 260 passengers on the inbound flight and departed with nearly 200 passengers returning to Shanghai, marking the official commencement of the new route. The service operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, with flights coded MU255 and MU256. The inaugural flight was branded "Summer in Shanghai" and featured cultural and tourism highlights of the city.

Zurich Airport greeted the maiden arrival with a traditional water salute, celebrating the new connection. China Eastern held inaugural ceremonies at both Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Zurich Airport, where passengers received commemorative gifts including customized aircraft plush toys and commemorative pens. The ceremony underscored the significance of the new link between the two cities.

This route represents China Eastern's second direct service to Switzerland, following the Shanghai-Geneva route launched in 2025. The airline is currently the only Chinese carrier operating direct flights from China to Zurich. Industry observers anticipate the new route will enhance travel convenience between China and Switzerland while strengthening bilateral trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The direct connection is expected to facilitate business travel and strengthen economic ties between the two nations.