China Eastern Airlines will launch direct flights between Adelaide and Shanghai in mid-2026, operating three times weekly. The 10-hour direct service will use wide-body aircraft, significantly upgrading connectivity between South Australia and China while creating substantial benefits for trade, tourism, education, and employment.

South Australia has long been considered a "hidden gem," while Shanghai serves as China’s financial and economic hub. This new route opens a "direct gateway to golden opportunities" for both regions.

Cargo Capacity: Each flight will provide ~15 tons of cargo space, boosting exports for South Australian producers.

Trade Impact: China is South Australia’s largest trading partner, with exports worth AUD 3.6 billion over the past 12 months—including AUD 731 million in wine and AUD 286 million in nuts.

Key Exports: The route will enable faster, more cost-effective access for South Australian wine, lobster, seafood, and nuts into the Chinese market, potentially driving export volumes to record highs.

Statement from South Australian Trade Minister Joe Szakacs:

"More exports, more tourists, more students, and more business collaborations—this is a route that truly creates jobs and fuels economic growth."

Tourism & Education Benefits:

International tourism currently contributes AUD 1.7 billion to South Australia’s economy, with China being a key source market.

Direct flights will make South Australia more accessible to Chinese tourists and reduce travel time/costs for students, boosting the education sector.

Statement from South Australian Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison:

"Our global connectivity has never been stronger. With increasing direct flights, we are attracting visitors from more key markets."

2. New Hong Kong Route Launches Next Week, Expanding Options

The Shanghai route is the third recently announced direct China-Australia flight, following:

China Southern Airlines: Melbourne-Shenzhen route resumption

Hong Kong Airlines: Sydney-Hong Kong route revival

Cathay Pacific: Adelaide-Hong Kong seasonal flights resuming next week

The Adelaide-Shanghai route will become the second direct link between Adelaide and mainland China, complementing China Southern’s seasonal Adelaide-Guangzhou service.

Adelaide’s Growing International Network:

United Airlines: Adelaide-San Francisco (seasonal, from December 2025)

Qantas & Air New Zealand: Adelaide-Auckland/Christchurch routes

Other key connections: Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates), Singapore (Singapore Airlines), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia Airlines)

Statement from Adelaide Airport CEO Brenton Cox:

"China Eastern’s presence will help connect South Australia to China and the world. This is a significant opportunity to expand business cooperation and tourism, and we look forward to deepening engagement with China."

Conclusion

The long-awaited direct flights from Adelaide to China are set to make travel more affordable and convenient. With increased capacity, airfares are expected to drop further—benefiting those traveling for family visits, study, business, or tourism.