(Photo: People's Daily)
China Eastern Airlines on Wednesday, the first day of 2025, inaugurated a regular "Shanghai Hongqiao to Hong Kong" flight service using the domestically developed C919 aircraft, Xinhua News Agency reported.
The flight is coded as MU721. Around 7 am, a launch ceremony took place at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, where vibrant traditional Chinese lion dances set a jubilant tone for the launch event.
The celebrations complemented the C919's striking "Shining China Red" livery. Adding to the occasion, crew members donned "Shining China Red" badges as they welcomed passengers onboard. Travelers were also given commemorative boarding passes, adding a special touch to the inauguration.
At 8:21 am, flight MU721 took off with 157 passengers onboard, signifying the connection between Shanghai, known as the "Pearl of the Orient," and Hong Kong -- the "Pearl of the East."
The milestone also emphasizes Hong Kong's unique relationship with the C919. On June 1, 2024, China Eastern Airlines operated a charter flight between Shanghai and Hong Kong using the C919. Now, this route has evolved from occasional charter operations to a daily regular service, identified by flight numbers MU721 and MU722."I had planned to visit Hong Kong today and was excited to experience the C919 for the first time," said a passenger, Huang, citing a Xinhua.net report. To elevate the experience, China Eastern has introduced a specially designed menu called "Cloud Dining: Shanghai to Hong Kong Together," featuring a blend of Cantonese and Shanghai flavors.
In addition, the C919 has been embraced by other major airlines in the country, including Air China and China Southern Airlines, signaling its broader adoption. With their expansive route networks and rigorous operational standards, the airlines are starting to help the C919 explore a massive home market.
