Air China has restarted direct flights between Beijing and Pyongyang after a six-year hiatus, marking another significant step in North Korea’s gradual opening up to the world. The resumption of flights comes after the reopening of train services between the two countries, with China acting as a lifeline for North Korea’s economy as its largest trading partner.
The first flight, CA121, departed Beijing Capital Airport at 7:58 am and arrived at Pyongyang’s Sunan International Airport at 10:37 am, carrying passengers with business, study, or other special purposes. China’s ambassador to North Korea, Wang Yajun, and other Chinese diplomats greeted the passengers at the airport, according to the Xinhua news agency.
Increased Exchanges and Travel
The resumption of flights is expected to deepen ties between China and North Korea, with Zhao saying, “The relationship between the two countries is now as close as brothers.” The flight route is currently only open to passengers with special purposes, but there are hopes that it will eventually be opened up to tourists.
North Korea’s Gradual Opening Up
North Korea has been gradually opening up to the world, with the resumption of direct flights and train services with Russia last year and state carrier Air Koryo restarting flights between Beijing and Pyongyang in 2023. The country has also been working to increase its international connections, with China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs playing a key role in facilitating these efforts.
Here are some key points to note about the resumption of flights:
- Air China has restarted direct flights between Beijing and Pyongyang after a six-year hiatus
- The flights are currently only open to passengers with business, study, or other special purposes
- The resumption of flights marks another significant step in North Korea’s gradual opening up to the world
- China has been acting as a lifeline for North Korea’s economy as its largest trading partner
