British Airways opens new China route

British Airways (BA) is set to launch a new route to the China city of Chengdu, the company revealed Wednesday.

The UK carrier will provide thrice-weekly flights between London Heathrow and Chengdu,starting September 22 next year.

Tickets to Chengdu are on sale now and start from £508 and the route will be served by a four-cabin Boeing 777.

Willie Walsh, Chief Executive Officer of BA's parent company IAG, said: "I have visited China on many occasions and last year went to Chengdu to see for myself the progress that has been made at the airport. It is truly impressive and shows vision and ambition.

"I am delighted to announce this new route which demonstrates the importance of mainland China to British Airways and our commitment to grow our presence here."

He said the company saw an opportunity in one of the China's largest cities as the country's economy grows. Walsh added that China's wealth was continuing to outstrip that of most other countries.

"Since 1990, Chengdu's economy has expanded rapidly, consistently delivering double-digit rates of growth. We are confident that the new route between Chengdu and London will prove popular with customers travelling between the two major economic hubs," he said.

"China is also a fascinating venue for leisure travellers, and the region is famed for its giant pandas, rich culture and excellent cuisine."

The announcement comes just weeks after the airline started services to Seoul in South Korea.

Next year British Airways is also set to increase frequencies on services from London Heathrow to Amman, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jeddah, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro and Toronto.

IAG shares were up 3.60% to 187.20p at 15:20 Wednesday.

RD