Glasgow in line to be first city to offer direct flights to China

A landmark deal on aviation access will allow up to 50 per cent more flights to the country from the UK.

Glasgow Airport could now work with airlines to develop the new routes after previously expressing an interest in offering direct flights to China.

The deal could lead to an economic boost to Scotland worth hundreds of millions of pounds as well as creating new tourism opportunities.

Successful negotiations in October 2016 saw limits on passenger flights between Scotland and China rise from 40 per week to a maximum of 100.

In turn, the number of Chinese tourists visiting the UK has subsequently increased during the first half of this year.

A landmark new agreement will see a big increase in flights between the UK and China. Up to 150 flights a week could open up opportunities for new business and tourism across the country https://t.co/Q4xK2RVFPX pic.twitter.com/DPpATfpS45

— Dept for Transport (@transportgovuk) December 10, 2017

Last year, 41,000 visits were made from China to Scotland, with a total of £36 million being spent by those visiting the country.

The value of exports to China has continued to grow in recent years, with £2.5 billion worth of goods exported from Scotland to China in the year ending September 2017.

The Scottish Whisky Association also reported sales have increased by 45 per cent in the first half of this year.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Scotland is known around the globe for the quality of its produce – not least its world-famous whisky. This deal could provide more opportunities for Scottish exporters to trade with a hugely important market.

“I also want to see more people from around the world enjoying the natural beauty of Scotland and all the other tourist attractions the country offers.

“This agreement shows our relationship with China is going from strength to strength and points to a bright future for the UK after Brexit. I hope Scotland takes advantage by delivering its first direct route to China.”

Under the current arrangement, a maximum of 100 passenger flights per week can operate between the UK and China with this figure set to increase to 150.

Chinese tourists are some of the UK’s highest spenders, staying longer and travelling more than visitors from other countries.

Last year, Manchester airport launched the first direct regional flight between the two countries worth an estimated £250 million in economic benefits to the UK over the next decade.