China Eastern Airlines Launches First Direct Shanghai-Tbilisi Flight, Enhancing Global Access

flights • 7 May 2026

### China Eastern Airlines Launches First Direct Shanghai-Tbilisi Flight, Enhancing Global Access China Eastern Airlines is set to introduce the first direct flight between Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Tbilisi International Airport in Georgia, starting July 15, 2026. Operated with Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft, the route will run three times weekly on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Outbound flight MU285 departs Shanghai at 12:50 p.m. Beijing time, arriving in Tbilisi at 7 p.m. local time after a 10-hour-10-minute journey. The return MU286 leaves Tbilisi at 9 p.m. local time, landing in Shanghai at 10 a.m. the next day. Economy fares for the inaugural flight begin at US$577.10 including tax, with business and first-class options from US$2,155.10, according to the airline's website. This new service slashes previous travel times of 16 to 23 hours via connections, making it easier for American travelers to combine a China visit with Georgia's vibrant culture and Caucasus landscapes. It aligns with the China-Georgia mutual visa-exemption agreement effective since May 28, 2024, allowing up to 30 days visa-free per visit (90 days max in 180 days) for ordinary passport holders—perfect for seamless extensions from Shanghai adventures. *(Source: City News Service, May 6, 2026)* ### Air China Debuts Chongqing-Manila Route, Boosting Southeast Asia Links Air China has launched a direct flight connecting Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport with Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport, effective May 3, 2026. Using Boeing 737 aircraft, the route offers four round-trip flights weekly, expanding Air China's Philippines network to three routes with 15 weekly round-trips total. This enhances connectivity for travelers exploring Chongqing's spicy cuisine, Yangtze River cruises, and modern skyline before heading to Manila's beaches and historic sites. The timing complements the Philippines' 14-day visa-free entry for Chinese citizens since January 16, 2026, fostering smoother regional travel. American visitors can now easily incorporate this dynamic duo into itineraries, with Chongqing's world-class high-speed rail and airports making multi-city trips effortless. *(Source: Xinhua, May 3, 2026)*

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