New direct flights to link Changsha with the Philippines

The Beijing-based Okair Airlines is scheduled to open regular direct flights to Cebu on June 1 and to Palawan on June 18 from Changsha, capital of Hunan province, Hunan Daily reported.

It comes closely after the last direct flight, which launched in October 2017, linking the city with a Philippine destination -- Boracay Island, the most popular Philippine destination for Chinese tourists.

Local people present a cultural performance in Cebu, the Philippines. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Cebu and Palawan islands are emerging tourist destinations for Chinese travelers.

The direct flights, using Boeing 737 airplane, between Changsha and Cebu plan to leave Changsha Huanghua International Airport at 11: 35 am and land in Cebu at 3:00 pm, the flights will be available every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. The return flights are also scheduled for every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

In addition, the Okair Airlines will link Puerto Princesa International Airport in Palawan and Changsha every Monday, the flight duration will be less than four hours. The flights will depart Changsha at 11:35 am and arrive in Palawan at 3:05 pm.

According to an employee of Okair Airlines, there are currently only charter flights to Palawan from domestic cities and no direct flights to Cebu from the Central China's Hunan province. 

The two additions will offer convenience to travelers in Hunan and surrounding provinces as well as more options to the island-goers, the employee added.

Kayaking at the Big Lagoon in El Nido, Palawan. [Photo provided to China Daily]