Hainan Airlines, the fourth largest airlines of China, on Tuesday announced in Brussels that it would offer four weekly flights between Belgium and China.

 

As from late July, Hainan Airlines will offer direct flights between the European Capital Brussels, the Chinese Capital Beijing and the leading business city Shanghai.

 

"Though we have many options when we choose new international destinations, the market potential of Brussels as the heart of Europe impressed us very much, we made Brussels our first choice," said Zhao Zhongyin, vice president of the Hainan Airlines Group.

 

"Frankly speaking, there are still problems ahead before we start the new operation. We will strive to overcome them and start to serve our passengers with safety, punctuality and excellent cabin services," Zhao told a signing ceremony at the Brussels airport.

 

Belgian Economy and Trade Minister Marc Verwilghen said that this direct air link with China is of great importance especially for the growth f business of both countries.

 

Tickets for the flights will be sold through the sales channels of Hainan Airlines and Belgium's leading SN Brussels Airlines.

 

(Xinhua News Agency April 26, 2006)