London Gatwick builds on China network momentum with new Air China service to Chengdu

Passengers heading to China can now benefit from even greater choice from London Gatwick, following the launch of a new Air China service to Chengdu Tianfu (TFU).

Flights to Chengdu launched on Sunday 12 July and will run through the 2026 summer season, creating a new direct link between London Gatwick and one of China’s biggest cities. 

Operating three times per week from the airport’s North Terminal, the service provides additional capacity between the UK and China, meeting the growing demand for travel between the two markets.

Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan province, is one of the country’s most important economic and cultural centres. The city combines a rich history with a rapidly growing economy and serves as a gateway to western China.

Jonny Macneal, Head of Aviation Development, London Gatwick said: “We’re delighted that Air China is expanding its successful operation here at London Gatwick. This new service to Chengdu delivers even more choice for passengers travelling between the UK and China.

“Coming shortly after the return of services to Qingdao with Beijing Capital, the route demonstrates the continued growth of our China network and the strong demand we’re seeing for travel between the UK and Asia.”

The launch represents another significant development in London Gatwick’s growing China network. Air China, one of the country’s ‘Big Three’ airlines and the nation’s flag carrier, already operates services between the airport and Beijing and Shanghai, with Chengdu becoming the carrier’s third destination from London Gatwick.

The new service follows the  recent return of Beijing Capital Airlines’ Qingdao route and continues a period of strong growth in connectivity between London Gatwick and China. 

At peak this summer, the airport will offer 61 weekly flights to six Chinese destinations, served by Air China, China Eastern, China Southern and Beijing Capital Airlines.