Shenzhen Airlines Launches First Direct Melbourne Flights

December 23, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1766491448236-1597

Chinese Carrier Expands Australia Network Amid Strengthening Trade Ties

Shenzhen Airlines has launched its first direct flight to Melbourne, marking a significant expansion of Australia’s air connectivity with southern China. The new route, operated by Airbus A330 aircraft three times weekly, adds over 90,000 seats annually between Melbourne and China. This development comes as Australia-China trade relations continue to strengthen, with the two countries accounting for 25% and 30% of global goods and services trade in 2024, respectively. The Victorian government’s Industry Partnerships Program has secured funding for destination marketing, which will benefit tourism operators and local exporters seeking access to key markets in southern China.

Sponsored by Jumpseat Solutions, jumpseatsolutions.com

Key Takeaways

Shenzhen Airlines launched its first direct flight to Melbourne.
The route operates three times weekly on Airbus A330 aircraft.
The service adds over 90,000 seats annually between Melbourne and China.

Shenzhen Airlines Victorian Government

Strategic Implications

This new route may indicate Shenzhen Airlines’ focus on expanding Australia’s connectivity with southern China. The partnership with the Victorian government suggests a strategic interest in promoting tourism and trade between the two regions. The addition of this service could also benefit local exporters seeking access to key markets in southern China.