Workers load a Xiamen Air aircraft before it leaves for Valencia, Spain on May 29. [Photo/xmnn.cn]
Xiamen Air launched its first flight to Valencia, Spain on May 29. This marked the first time a Chinese civil airliner has landed in the Mediterranean port city, Xiamen Daily reported.
The aircraft was loaded with 8,537 kilograms of goods, including face masks and gloves to help fight the novel coronavirus outbreak.
All goods were packed using waterproof materials to prevent them from water damage while in transit.
Officials said that the shipment took no more than two months to prepare after the company decided to launch the new flight. A special team was set up to ensure that everything proceeded smoothly.
The new flight was a part of the airline's efforts to promote trade and logistics between China and Western countries in response to the Belt and Road Initiative.
The company plans to make Valencia a regular flight destination, helping turn Xiamen into a logistics center for cross-border e-commerce platforms and further linking the city with Spain.
The new flight is also expected to help Xiamen Air expand into the European market.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
