Travel to China from the UK has evolved significantly since the Covid-19 pandemic and the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Geopolitical restrictions, economic shifts and reduced demand have reshaped flight routes, frequencies and costs
Current Regular Commercial Flights
Direct flights between the UK and China are primarily operated by Chinese carriers due to their ability to use Russian airspace, which shortens flight times and reduces costs compared to European airlines. Key airlines include:
- Air China: Operates daily direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK). Flight time averages 10 hours 59 minutes.
- China Southern: Runs daily direct flights from LHR to Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) with an average duration of 14 hours 25 minutes, and four weekly flights to Beijing.
- China Eastern: Offers daily direct flights from LHR to Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), with an average flight time of 11 hours 23 minutes.
- British Airways: Continues daily LHR–PVG flights but suspended its Beijing route in October 2024 due to longer flight times (avoiding Russian airspace adds up to 2.5 hours) and low demand.
- Hainan Airlines: Provides occasional direct flights from London to smaller hubs like Chongqing or Xi’an, though schedules vary.
Indirect flights are available through hubs like Dubai (Emirates), Doha (Qatar Airways), or Helsinki (Finnair), often at lower costs but with longer total travel times (15–20 hours). Popular routes include Manchester (MAN) to Shanghai via Abu Dhabi with Etihad or LHR to Beijing via Paris with Air France.
Flight Frequency
- Daily: Air China (LHR–PEK), China Southern (LHR–CAN), China Eastern (LHR–PVG), and British Airways (LHR–PVG).
- 4–5 times weekly: China Southern (LHR–Beijing), Hainan Airlines (LHR–Chongqing/Xi’an).
- Indirect flights: Multiple daily options via Middle Eastern or European hubs, with Emirates and Qatar Airways offering the most frequent connections.
Sunday has the highest number of direct flights from London (averaging six), while Monday sees the fewest (around four).
Costs and Deals
Flight prices fluctuate based on season, booking time and demand.
- Cheapest months: October and November, with return economy flights starting at £324 (e.g., LHR–PEK with China Southern). Booking two months in advance on Tuesdays or Wednesdays often yields the lowest fares.
- Most expensive months: April and January (around Chinese New Year), with return flights exceeding £458.
- Average costs: Economy return tickets range from £324 (Beijing) to £460 (Shanghai or Guangzhou). Indirect flights can start at £237 (Saudi via Jeddah), though direct flights with Chinese carriers are often better value for time saved.
Deals:
- Skyscanner and KAYAK offer real-time comparisons, with deals like £254 return from LHR to Beijing on Air China.
- StudentUniverse provides student discounts, with return fares to Shanghai or Beijing from £300.
- Booking.com and Expedia.co.uk highlight flexible tickets with no change fees, ideal for uncertain travel plans.
Reliability and Delays
Chinese carriers (Air China, China Southern, China Eastern) are generally reliable due to shorter routes over Russia, reducing weather-related disruptions and fuel costs. Data from OAG indicates these airlines have fewer delays compared to European carriers like Lufthansa or Air France, which face longer routes and higher operational costs. Air China’s LHR–PEK route is among the least delayed, with an on-time performance of around 80%. Indirect flights via busy hubs like Dubai or Doha are more prone to delays, especially during peak seasons.
Best Value and Chinese Cities Served
For best value, direct flights with Chinese carriers to major hubs offer the optimal balance of cost, time, and reliability:
- Beijing (PEK): Air China’s daily LHR–PEK flights (£324–£400 return) are ideal for access to the capital.
- Shanghai (PVG): China Eastern and British Airways’ daily flights (£400–£460 return) serve China’s economic powerhouse.
- Guangzhou (CAN): China Southern’s daily LHR–CAN route (£350–£450 return) connects to southern China’s trade hub.
For secondary cities, indirect flights or domestic connections from Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou are cost-effective.
Tips for Travellers
- Book early: Secure flights 2–3 months ahead for the best deals.
- Check visas: UK passport holders need a visa, obtainable via Chinese visa application centres.
- Avoid peak seasons: Steer clear of Chinese New Year (January–February) and summer (June–August) for lower costs and fewer crowds.
- Consider indirect routes: For budget travellers, transiting via Seoul or Hong Kong can save up to 30% compared to direct flights.
Despite post-Covid and Ukraine-related challenges, direct flights with Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern from London to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou offer the best value and reliability in 2025. With return fares starting at £324 and daily frequencies, these routes cater to diverse travel needs. For the budget-conscious, indirect flights via Middle Eastern hubs provide cheaper alternatives, though at the cost of longer travel times. Always compare deals on platforms like Skyscanner and book early to maximise savings.
