Taking Off: New Direct Flights Connect Shanghai and Casablanca
Casablanca is now just a plane ride away from Shanghai! Starting January 19th, Shanghai Airlines, a subsidiary of China Eastern, launched a new route connecting these two vibrant cities. This exciting development reflects the growing economic and cultural ties between China and Morocco.
This new air bridge will operate three times a week – on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays – with morocco-turkey-paper-boarding-passes/” title=”Ryanair Requires Printed Boarding Passes for Morocco, Turkey Travel”>flights departing from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and arriving at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). The flights will include a stopover in Marseille, France.
According to reports, the flights will depart Shanghai at 1:55 a.m. local time, touching down in Casablanca at 1:10 p.m. Return flights will leave Casablanca at 5:10 p.m., arriving back in Shanghai at 4:50 p.m. the following day. These convenient flight times offer travelers flexibility and maximize their time in either city.
Shanghai Airlines will operate these flights using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which boast a capacity of 285 passengers, including 26 business class seats. The Dreamliner is known for its comfortable cabin pressure and advanced technology, promising a pleasant journey for all passengers. This route marks China Eastern’s second foray into the African market, following the launch of their Shanghai to Cairo route in December.
The timing of this new route coincides perfectly with the upcoming Chinese New Year (also known as Spring Festival), a period of significant travel within and outside of China. This period often sees a surge in tourism, and the new direct flight offers a convenient option for those looking to explore Morocco. The influx of Chinese tourists is expected to further boost Morocco’s tourism sector, which contributes significantly to the national economy. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the travel and tourism sector’s contribution to Morocco’s GDP was 7.1% in 2021, demonstrating the importance of this industry.
This new air link builds upon the strengthening relationship between Morocco and China. Since Morocco’s decision in 2016 to grant visa-free access to Chinese citizens, the kingdom has become an increasingly popular destination for Chinese tourists. This visa-free policy has undoubtedly played a crucial role in fostering tourism and strengthening bilateral relations. Beyond tourism, increased connectivity facilitates trade and cultural exchange, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
China Eastern Airlines, established in 1988 and headquartered in Shanghai, is the second-largest airline in China by passenger numbers. With a modern fleet of over 600 aircraft, the airline connects passengers to destinations across the globe. The addition of the Casablanca route further expands their network and reinforces their commitment to providing comprehensive travel options. This expansion reflects the growing importance of air travel in connecting global economies and fostering international cooperation.
Keywords: Shanghai, Casablanca, Direct Flights, China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines, Morocco, Tourism, Chinese New Year, Visa-Free Travel, Boeing 787-9, PVG, CM
