Xi’an opens direct flight to Turkey, a significant development that not only enhances regional connectivity but also marks the city’s very first international direct route to Türkiye. This important connection links two ancient Silk Road cities, Xi’an and Istanbul, and reflects growing ties between China and the wider Eurasian region.
Flight MU5025 Officially Takes Off
At 2:08 a.m. on June 24, China Eastern Airlines Flight MU5025 took off from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. This marked the official launch of a new direct route to Istanbul, Türkiye.
Convenient Schedule for International Travelers
Operated by an Airbus A330, the flight offers a high-quality travel experience with 262 seats onboard. It runs three times a week, on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The outbound flight, MU5025, departs Xi’an at 01:50 and lands in Istanbul at 07:00 local time. The return flight, MU5026, leaves Istanbul at 11:00 local time and arrives back in Xi’an at 01:25 the next day.
This new route is more than just a convenient way to travel, it shows China Eastern Airlines’ commitment to growing its international network and supporting national plans like the Belt and Road Initiative. As Xi’an grows into a major gateway to the west, the new flight highlights its role as the eastern starting point of the Silk Road. At the same time, Istanbul, located between Europe and Asia, continues to serve as a key transportation hub across Eurasia.
Strengthening Trade, Culture, and Tourism
The launch of the Xi’an–Istanbul route is expected to boost economic and trade cooperation, cultural exchange, and tourism between northwest China, Türkiye, the Middle East, and Europe. Passengers can now easily explore Xi’an’s historical wonders and Istanbul’s vibrant blend of Eastern and Western cultures, all on a seamless direct flight.
Looking ahead, China Eastern Airlines plans to expand even further. In July, it will launch two more international routes: Xi’an–Tashkent (Uzbekistan) and Xining–Xi’an–Hong Kong. These additions will offer more travel options during the busy summer season.
China Eastern currently operates 18 international routes from Xi’an Xianyang International Airport, linking the city to 16 global destinations. As new routes are added, the airport is quickly becoming a major international hub. This is improving Shaanxi Province’s global connections and making it easier for travelers to visit the region.
