Direct air travel between China and Georgia is expanding. The Chinese carrier China Eastern Airlines plans to increase the frequency of its Shanghai – Tbilisi route from three to five flights per week starting in 2027. The expansion of air service provides Georgia with opportunities not only for growing tourist flows, but also for deepening trade, economic, and investment ties with China. This was announced by the Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Tamar Ioseliani, during a working visit to China following a meeting with the Executive Vice President of China Eastern Airlines, Wang Qingchao.

Growing Demand and Plans to Expand Air Services

The airline launched direct regular Shanghai – Tbilisi flights on July 15, 2026. Currently, three flights per week operate on this route.

According to the Ministry of Economy of Georgia, both parties positively assessed the results of the new air route during the meeting. It was noted that the service enjoys high load factors and passenger demand continues to rise.

According to Tamar Ioseliani, increasing flight frequency will contribute to strengthening economic ties between the nations, advancing tourism, and attracting investments.

"This will facilitate the deepening of ties between our countries, tourism development, and investment attraction," the Deputy Minister stated.

Passenger Traffic on Direct Flights to China Is Rising

The expansion of flights between Georgia and China is also mirrored in passenger traffic statistics.

According to the Ministry, the number of passengers carried on direct flights between the two countries surged by 76% year-on-year in 2025. Over the first nine months of 2026, growth registered an additional 36% compared to the same period of the previous year.
These figures confirm that the Chinese market is becoming increasingly significant for Georgia's aviation and tourism sectors.

Furthermore, China Eastern Airlines expressed readiness to consider stepping up the frequency of current operations and scheduling additional flights towards Georgia.

Shanghai: A Key Economic and Financial Hub

Direct air connectivity with Shanghai holds strategic importance for Georgia. As one of China's major financial and economic powerhouses, it serves as a crucial hub for international trade, business, and investments.
Developing direct air links can streamline business contacts, increase corporate visits, and promote Georgia's tourism potential across the Chinese market.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed offering China Eastern Airlines passengers additional travel itineraries across Georgia. Discussions included integrating the services of Georgian Railway and ground transport. General Director of Georgian Railway Lasha Abashidze was also present at the meeting.

The Georgian delegation noted that it intends to reinforce air links with China and maximize the economic opportunities opened up by direct air communication.

China's Inbound Tourism Market Demonstrates Growth

The upward trend in visitor numbers from China is also confirmed by 2026 statistics.

According to data published by Business Insider Georgia, from January to September 2026 Georgia welcomed 119,081 international visits from China, which is 23.6% higher than during the same period of the previous year. In the third quarter alone, the number of visits from China climbed by 30.2%.