Analysts say the ongoing Middle East conflict and tightening jet fuel supplies have created a challenging operating environment for airlines worldwide.
Unlike many European carriers, Chinese airlines can fly through Russian airspace, allowing them to operate more direct routes to Europe, helping reducing flight times and fuel consumption, while avoiding the need to reroute through congested Middle Eastern corridors.
The expansion of China-Europe capacity during the peak travel season is expected to strengthen the position of Chinese airlines in long-haul markets, the South China Morning Post reported.
According to data from U.K.-based aviation analytics firm OAG, Chinese airlines have collectively increased Europe-bound flights by nearly 2,900.
Air China added 1,120 flights, followed by China Southern Airlines with 839 and China Eastern Airlines with 654. Hainan Airlines has also expanded its schedule between late March and October.
Airlines are also planning to introduce new routes between China and Europe, with some routes operating multiple frequencies, further boosting capacity.
As geopolitical tensions persist and fuel markets remain volatile, airlines worldwide are bracing for a period of elevated costs and operational uncertainty.
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