China’s second largest airline, China Eastern Airlines, unveiled its new base in the city of Changchun in northeastern China on July 24, upgrading its service between Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ) and its hub in Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) to one that operates 16 round trips per day.
China Eastern Strengthens Position in Changchun
As domestic tourism is on the rise in China, China Eastern has been keen to leverage this and provide more services for its passengers making the most of China’s regional diversity and improve access to lesser-travelled destinations. Changchun, as well as Jilin, the province in which it is located, are both known for ski resorts and stunning winter scenery. However, it is hoped that the increased connectivity to the Northeastern region will establish its status as a year-round tourist hotspot. The city of Changchun boasts attractions such as The Museum of the Imperial Palace of Manchukuo, where the last emperor of China lived during Japanese occupation, as well as many museums and areas of natural beauty that are sure to impress at any time of the year. With the increased connectivity between Changchun and Shanghai, it is possible that more international visitors will visit the Northeast as an alternative to the hustle and bustle of cities such as Shanghai and Beijing. Shanghai Pudong Airport was the busiest airport in Asia in 2025, and connecting Changchun to such a busy international hub is sure to boost tourist numbers in the area.
Changchun Airport Expansion
Changchun Longjia International Airport is located around 32 kilometres (19.9 miles) from the centre of Changchun. It is regarded as a gateway to Asia, with flights to most major Chinese cities and services to Tokyo, Seoul and Singapore. It is a hub for China Southern Airlines, another major Chinese airline which serves many cities within the country. Passengers can access the airport via taxi, shuttle bus or train, with a light rail line to the airport estimated to finish construction in 2026. Chinese architecture firm MAD Architects has laid out plans for the third terminal of Changchun Airport, which will accommodate an estimated 22 million passengers a year upon its completion.
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