New Route of the Day (12 July 2026): Air China between Chengdu and London LGW

Air China inaugurated seasonal flights between Chengdu, in southwestern China, and London LGW on Sunday 12 July. The 8,375-kilometre route will be maintained 3-weekly, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, with the A350-900 aircraft. The carrier does not face any direct competition on the route.

Operations will be maintained until the end of the 2026 summer season in late October.

What they said

Jonny Macneal, Head of Aviation Development at London Gatwick Airport, said: “We’re delighted that Air China is expanding its successful operation here at London Gatwick. This new service to Chengdu delivers even more choice for passengers travelling between the UK and China. Coming shortly after the return of services to Qingdao with Beijing Capital, the route demonstrates the continued growth of our China network and the strong demand we’re seeing for travel between the UK and Asia.”

London Gatwick with seven China routes

The launch represents another significant development in London LGW’s growing China network. Air China already operates services between the airport and Beijing PEK and Shanghai PVG, with Chengdu becoming the carrier’s third destination from London LGW.

The new service follows the recent return of Beijing Capital Airlines’ Qingdao route and continues a period of strong growth in connectivity between London LGW and China.

During the peak of the ongoing summer season, the airport will offer 61-weekly flights to six Chinese destinations, served by Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Beijing Capital Airlines.

China Southern maintains service from London LGW to Guangzhou and Zhengzhou, while China Eastern Airlines operates to Shanghai PVG. As a result, London LGW boasts seven China routes to six airports in the country.