Air China has resumed direct flights between Beijing and Pyongyang after a six-year hiatus. The resumption of flights is a significant development in North Korea's gradual opening up to the world. Beijing-Pyongyang flights were heavily restricted when North Korea sealed its borders in 2020 during the pandemic. The return of direct flights is a sign of China's continued support for North Korea's economy and diplomatic efforts. China has been North Korea's largest trading partner and a key source of diplomatic and political support.
The first flight, CA121, departed Beijing's Capital Airport on Monday at 7:58 am and arrived at Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport at 10:37 am. The Boeing 737-700 aircraft has a capacity for up to 128 passengers, although only travellers with business, study, or other special purposes can make the cross-border journey. Chinese diplomats, including Ambassador Wang Yajun, greeted passengers at the airport. Pyongyang-bound business traveller Zhao Bin expressed optimism about the resumption of tourism, citing increased exchanges and travel between people.
Economy class tickets for the flight were available for around $200. A return flight from Pyongyang is scheduled for midday. The resumption of direct flights follows the restart of train services between the two capitals earlier this month. North Korea has proceeded at a slower pace than China in reopening its borders since the pandemic.
The resumption of Air China flights to Pyongyang is a significant development in North Korea's gradual opening up to the world. It is a testament to China's continued support for North Korea's economy and diplomatic efforts. With economy class tickets available for around $200, the flights are likely to increase tourism and exchanges between the two countries. However, the lack of confirmation regarding Western tourists is a cause for concern. The resumption of flights highlights the complex relationship between China and North Korea, with China acting as a lifeline for North Korea's economy.
