Xi'an Airport Expands Long-Haul Connectivity to Boost International Reach
Xi'an Xianyang International Airport is intensifying its efforts to expand its long-haul network as it prepares to host Routes Asia 2026. The airport is focusing on enhancing its international connectivity, particularly with Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. A significant development is the planned launch of a thrice-weekly service between Xi'an and Vienna by China Eastern Airlines, marking the airport's first nonstop link to Austria. This move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Xi'an's position as a key gateway connecting eastern and western China with Central Asia and Europe. The airport handled over 48 million passengers in 2025, making it one of China's top 10 airports. Despite its growth, Xi'an acknowledges gaps in its network, particularly in direct long-haul routes to North America and coverage in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. 
