China Eastern Airlines has confirmed that its direct long-haul services from Wenzhou to Madrid and Rome Fiumicino will continue throughout the Northern Winter 2026–27 season, strengthening air links between China, Spain and Italy while reinforcing Wenzhou as an emerging international aviation gateway. Beginning with the winter schedule on 25 October 2026, the airline will continue operating both European routes using its Airbus A350-900 fleet, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity between eastern China and two of Southern Europe’s most important tourism, business and cultural destinations.
The decision reflects sustained demand for direct long-haul travel while supporting tourism, international trade, education and cultural exchanges between Zhejiang Province and Europe during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
China Eastern Maintains Its European Network
Rather than introducing seasonal interruptions, China Eastern has opted to maintain stable long-haul operations throughout the winter timetable.
The continuation of direct services to Madrid and Rome demonstrates confidence in passenger demand while providing greater certainty for travellers planning international journeys.
For passengers departing from Wenzhou and neighbouring cities across Zhejiang Province, the flights eliminate the need for additional domestic connections through larger aviation hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou.
The result is a faster and more convenient travel experience.
Winter Schedule Begins in October 2026
Could year-round continuity become one of the airline’s biggest competitive advantages?
The extended schedule suggests exactly that.
China Eastern will continue operating its European network from 25 October 2026, when the Northern Winter 2026–27 aviation schedule officially begins.
Maintaining uninterrupted services provides passengers with greater confidence when planning business trips, holidays, educational travel and family visits during the winter season.
Stable scheduling also benefits travel agencies and tour operators building long-haul itineraries months in advance.
Wenzhou Strengthens Its International Position
The continued operation of two long-haul European routes highlights Wenzhou’s growing importance within China’s aviation landscape.
Traditionally recognised as one of China’s leading manufacturing and commercial centres, Wenzhou is increasingly expanding its international connectivity.
Direct flights to Madrid and Rome strengthen the city’s global profile while supporting economic cooperation, tourism development and international investment.
The expanded connectivity also reinforces Zhejiang Province’s wider integration into international transport networks.
Europe Gains Easier Access to Eastern China
The benefits extend well beyond outbound Chinese tourism.
European travellers now enjoy more convenient access to eastern China without relying exclusively on larger gateway cities.
Visitors arriving in Wenzhou can explore a destination known for its entrepreneurial culture, historic temples, mountain scenery and coastal landscapes before continuing to other regions of China.
The direct services also encourage educational exchanges, business partnerships and inbound tourism.
Madrid and Rome Continue Attracting Chinese Visitors
Both European destinations remain among China’s most popular long-haul leisure markets.
Madrid offers internationally renowned attractions including the Prado Museum, Royal Palace of Madrid, Retiro Park and vibrant shopping districts.
Meanwhile, Rome continues welcoming visitors to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Vatican City.
The continuation of direct flights strengthens tourism flows in both directions.
Convenient Access Through Modern Airports
Flights depart from Wenzhou Longwan International Airport, located approximately 24 kilometres south-east of central Wenzhou.
Passengers travelling to Spain arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, situated around 15 kilometres north-east of central Madrid.
Travellers heading to Italy arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci Airport), approximately 30 kilometres south-west of central Rome.
Each airport provides excellent transport links, hotels, shopping, restaurants, pharmacies and passenger services.
Airbus A350-900 Supports Long-Haul Comfort
The routes continue operating with the Airbus A350-900, one of the world’s most advanced long-haul aircraft.
Known for improved fuel efficiency, quieter cabins and enhanced passenger comfort, the aircraft supports both operational performance and the overall travel experience.
Its deployment reflects China Eastern’s commitment to maintaining competitive long-haul services between China and Europe.
Aviation Supports Tourism and Trade
The continuation of the Wenzhou–Europe network demonstrates how stable air connectivity underpins broader economic growth.
Reliable direct flights encourage tourism, facilitate international trade, strengthen educational cooperation and support business investment.
As China and Europe continue expanding commercial and cultural engagement, direct aviation links remain essential infrastructure connecting people, industries and destinations.
Key Stats
- China Eastern continues Wenzhou–Madrid and Wenzhou–Rome services throughout the Northern Winter 2026–27 season.
- Winter operations begin on 25 October 2026.
- Flights are operated using the Airbus A350-900.
- Wenzhou Longwan International Airport is approximately 24 km from central Wenzhou.
- Madrid–Barajas Airport is approximately 15 km from central Madrid.
- Rome Fiumicino Airport is approximately 30 km from central Rome.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the winter schedule begin?
China Eastern’s Northern Winter 2026–27 schedule begins on 25 October 2026.
Which European cities are served?
The airline continues direct services to Madrid and Rome Fiumicino.
Why is the route extension significant?
It strengthens tourism, business, education and cultural connectivity between eastern China, Spain and Italy while improving long-haul travel convenience.
Timeline and Events
25 October 2026 – China Eastern begins its Northern Winter 2026–27 schedule while continuing direct Wenzhou services to Madrid and Rome.
Winter 2026–27 – Long-haul operations continue uninterrupted, supporting Europe–China tourism and business connectivity.
Conclusion
China Eastern’s decision to maintain direct Wenzhou–Madrid and Wenzhou–Rome services throughout the Northern Winter 2026–27 season underscores the growing importance of Wenzhou as an emerging international aviation gateway. By providing uninterrupted long-haul connectivity to Spain and Italy, the airline is enhancing travel convenience for passengers across eastern China while encouraging tourism, business, education and cultural exchanges with Southern Europe. Supported by modern Airbus A350-900 aircraft and beginning with the winter schedule on 25 October 2026, the continued operations highlight how stable international air links remain fundamental to strengthening global mobility and expanding economic cooperation between China and Europe.
