Xiamen – September 10, 2026 -- XiamenAir landed its inaugural MF821 flight at London Heathrow on September 6, opening the first direct passenger route between Fujian province and the United Kingdom. The 12-hour flight departed Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport carrying 263 passengers, eliminating the need for stopovers via third-country hubs.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner to fly the route three times weekly

XiamenAir will operate the service using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Flight MF821 departs Xiamen at 00:50 and arrives in London at 06:35, while the return flight MF822 leaves London at 12:35 and lands in Xiamen at 07:00 local time the following day.

Schedule targets business travelers and connecting passengers

The early-morning arrival in London gives business travelers a head start on the workday and sufficient time to connect to other European flights. The midday departure from London allows passengers to catch domestic connections while minimizing jet lag. Xiamen airport also offers a 15-second smart customs clearance process for connecting travelers within XiamenAir's broader network.

Inaugural flight combined Xiamen coastal branding with British cultural themes

The launch event, themed "The Sea Breeze of Egret Island and British Charm," featured check-in area displays pairing Xiamen's coastline with London landmarks including Big Ben, red double-decker buses and telephone booths. A photo zone at the departure gate drew students and families, and organizers ran a pre-flight quiz as an interactive activity. Onboard, passengers received 3D commemorative cards and luggage tags, along with two specially prepared non-alcoholic cocktails served after reaching cruising altitude.

Route expected to serve Fujian's overseas Chinese community and student travelers

Fujian hosts a sizeable Chinese diaspora population in the UK alongside strong travel demand from provincial students. XiamenAir said the new route extends its intercontinental network and supports Fujian's international connectivity as bilateral ties between China and the UK continue to develop.