Skip to content
Case

Chinas Eastern Airlines launches direct route between Shanghai and Copenhagen

Strong international connectivity is a key factor when companies choose to expand in Europe. With the launch of a direct route connecting Shanghai and Copenhagen, China Eastern Airlines is reinforcing Denmark’s role as a well-connected gateway to the Nordic and Northern European markets.
When 16.12.2025
The new route improves travel options for both business and leisure passengers and supports growing trade, investment, and mobility between China and the Nordics. Alongside the route launch, China Eastern has also established a representative office in Copenhagen, underlining its commitment to the Danish market.

A Global Aviation Leader

Headquartered in Shanghai and a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, China Eastern Airlines operates a global network spanning more than 1,050 destinations across 166 countries and regions. Serving over 150 million passengers annually, the airline ranks among the world’s top carriers and maintains a strong commitment to sustainable aviation through continuous fleet optimization and green initiatives.

Denmark as A Strategic Nordic Gateway

For airlines looking to serve Northern Europe efficiently, Denmark offers a combination of scale, stability, and accessibility. A transparent regulatory environment, strong and consistent passenger demand, and highly efficient access to neighbouring Nordic markets all contributed to Denmark’s attractiveness.

Copenhagen Airport plays a central role, functioning as a highly efficient hub with strong onward connectivity across Northern Europe. This gives airlines both solid point-to-point demand and a practical platform for wider regional reach.

Why Denmark?

For China Eastern, several factors stood out:

  • Predictable and transparent operating conditions

  • Efficient access to the Nordic and Northern European markets

  • A well-functioning international airport with hub capabilities

  • A strong focus on sustainability and long-term partnerships

Together, these elements made Denmark a logical choice for establishing a Nordic presence and launching the Shanghai–Copenhagen route.

 

Supporting market entry and route launch 

During China Eastern’s evaluation and establishment process, Invest in Denmark worked closely with the Consulate General of Denmark in Shanghai to support China Eastern’s entry into the Danish market. The support included introductions to Danish business networks for market insights, as well as guidance on legal and ESG-related considerations related to operations in Denmark.

This collaboration contributed to a smooth establishment process and the successful launch of the new route.

quote ikon
“The opening of the direct Shanghai-Copenhagen route has further strengthened commercial and cultural ties between our two regions. We were pleased to support China Eastern throughout the establishment process and welcome their long-term commitment to Denmark and the Nordics.”
Jens Alsbirk Consul General of Denmark in Shanghai 

Get in touch Looking to expand in Northern Europe? 

Invest in Denmark provides confidential, free-of-charge advisory services to international aviation and transport companies exploring expansion opportunities in Northern Europe. Reach out to our experts here:

Loading...