A Fife teenager has played a starring role at the launch of Scotland’s first direct flight to China.
Conner Pratt, 18, from Glenrothes, is a piper from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and was on hand to welcome passengers touching down from Hainan Airlines’ inaugural flight from Beijing to Edinburgh.
The four-weekly, year-round service with Hainan Airlines to Beijing Capital International Airport is Scotland’s first connection to the Far East and has been described as a major boost for tourism in Scotland.
Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “This is a momentous day as we connect not only Edinburgh and Beijing for the first time, but Scotland and China too.
“It is a route which has immense opportunities for our countries, from tourism and business to culture, education and more.
“We know Edinburgh is second only to London for Chinese tourists and we are eager to welcome more people to our fantastic capital city, but it’s also about connecting people from Scotland to Beijing and wider China thanks to Hainan’s hub network.
“Hainan is one of the world’s most prestigious airlines and we are proud to be working with them. This is something the city has worked towards for a number of years and we are delighted to see this day finally arrive.”
The route will be serviced by an Airbus A330-300 and includes a stopover in Dublin as part of an innovative flight model which links the three capital cities.
Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, Paul Wheelhouse, said: “Securing direct links between Scotland and China is one of our key priorities for route development.
“This new direct Beijing-Edinburgh route is an exciting first chapter in direct air connectivity between Scotland and China.
“It will enable China and Scotland to become closer in partnership and in travel time, building upon existing strong links for business and tourism.
“The Scottish Government and our agencies look forward to working with Hainan Airlines and Edinburgh Airport to make this route a great success.”
