WUHAN, April 11 (Xinhua) -- A China Eastern Airlines flight carrying more than 140 passengers departed Wuhan late Friday night for Vientiane, marking the launch of the first direct route linking central China's Hubei Province with the Lao capital.
The outbound flight operates every Friday night, while the return flight departs Vientiane at 2:05 a.m. local time on Saturdays.
Ma Ming, marketing manager of China Eastern Airlines' Wuhan branch, said the new route is part of broader efforts to support the Belt and Road Initiative and strengthen links between Hubei and ASEAN.
Ma added that the route is expected to facilitate trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges by providing a faster and more convenient travel option.
To mark the inaugural flight, the airline organized themed activities at the airport, including photo displays featuring tourist attractions in both cities.
Among the passengers was a 77-member tour group heading to Laos. A tour leader surnamed Wu said most of the group members were middle-aged or elderly travelers visiting Laos for the first time, and the new route significantly reduced travel time.
"In the past, we usually had to transfer in southwest China's Kunming, which could take most of the day," Wu said. "Now it's just about three hours. It's much more comfortable for travelers and makes itinerary planning easier."
This year marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Laos, as well as the Year of China-Laos Friendship. ■
