China Eastern subsidiary Shanghai Airlines to start Shanghai-Marseille flight on 2nd July

China Eastern Airlines has confirmed it will officially launch a new direct flight between Shanghai and Marseille, France from 2nd July this year.

The new Shanghai-Marseille service will be operated by Shanghai Airlines, a subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines, with three round-trip flights per week on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

The flight numbers are FM871 from Shanghai to Marseille and FM872 for the return leg. The estimated flight time is around 12 hours. The new route will offer gate-to-gate internet service for passengers aboard.

Shanghai, located in east China and the estuary of the Yangtze River, and opening to the Pacific Ocean, Shanghai is one of the most economically vibrant, open, and innovative cities in China. It is dubbed "the grand halls" and the "first stop for inbound travelers to China". Marseille is France's second largest city, the biggest port in southern Europe, and an important hub for Mediterranean shipping and trade. It sits along the world-renowned azure coast of Provence. In 1987, Shanghai and Marseille became sister cities.

First 787 Dreamliner for Shanghai Airlines

Boeing and Shanghai Airlines celebrated the delivery of the carrier's first 787-9 Dreamliner today, the airline says it plans to use the aircraft on its regional and long-range service from its base in China's largest city.

The new aeroplane, with a special symbol of "100" on its fuselage, is the 100th aeroplane for Shanghai Airlines, a subsidiary of China Eastern Airlines. "We are so excited to take delivery of the very first Dreamliner for Shanghai Airlines, as well as China Eastern Group," said Li Yangmin, vice president of China Eastern Group. "With the introduction of these new aeroplanes, China Eastern Group will also officially launch the global leading new generation Passenger Service System.  We are confident that all these efforts will help us significantly upgrade our services and we know our passengers will love it."