British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have announced they will restart flights to mainland China.

Both Airlines were forced to severe flight routes with China following the outbreak of COVID-19 and the introduction of flight restriction which had a devastating effect on the travel industry.

Virgin Atlantic flights from London-Heathrow (LHR) to Shanghai will resume on May 1, 2023 for both passenger and cargo operations, marking the date when all of Virgin Atlantic’s routes will be operating once again.

British Airways will resume flights between London-Heathrow and Shanghai from April 23, 2023 followed by Beijing from June 3.

“We can’t wait to welcome our customers back on board our flights from Shanghai and Beijing. We know they’ve been looking forward to reuniting with family and friends, coming to study in the UK and resuming business between China and the UK,” said Noella Ferns, British Airways’ Head of Sales, Asia Pacific.

Virgin Atlantic has not flown to Shanghai since December 23, 2020, but with the easing of travel restrictions by the Chinese government both airlines are preparing for a surge in passengers wishing to visit.

“The return of our Shanghai services has been a long-time coming and I’m delighted it’s finally a reality. We’re looking forward to welcoming our customers back on board and providing vital links to one of the UK’s largest trading partners, for both passenger and cargo services,” explained Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic.

She added: “Shanghai is the final route to return following the global pandemic, restoring our flying programme to full capacity.”