Air China has launched its new route from Beijing to Venice.
A water salute on arrival
The inaugural flight, operated by an Airbus 330-220 carrying 200 passengers, was greeted with the traditional water salute organized by Rome Fiumicino Airport's fire brigade. 
"New opportunities for cultural and economic exchange”
“The connection with the Chinese capital – a destination of great charm where past and future engage in a constant dialogue – brings with it the added value of a network of connecting flights that, from the major hub serving as the airline’s base, llow passengers to reach destinations in the Far East as well as within China. For Venice, for the Veneto region, and for our country, this means further strengthening – through a second direct flight between Marco Polo Airport and China – a bond rooted in historical ties, which today translates into new opportunities for cultural and economic exchange,” said Enrico Marchi, chairman SAVE Group.
High-end tourism from China
The new route will serve and boost all traffic segments: business and cargo, tourism and VFR. The North-East of Italy accounts for 13% of trade flows between China and Italy, generating an annual turnover of around €10 billion, second only to that of the Milan area (Istat data for 2025). The region is also one of the country’s leading destinations in terms of the number of tourists arriving from China. And it is high-end tourism, with over 70% of visitors choosing luxury accommodation
