Adelaide is set to gain its first direct connection to Shanghai, with China Eastern Airlines announcing plans to begin flights between the two cities from mid-2026. The move is being described as a major development for South Australia’s exports, tourism and broader economy.
The airline, which is China’s second largest, operates close to 800 aircraft and will use a wide-bodied plane for the 10-hour route. Flights are expected to run three times a week on a seasonal basis, linking Adelaide with Shanghai for the first time.
The timing aligns with the SA Government’s goal to open more direct pathways between South Australia and major international markets. Shanghai, regarded as China’s financial and commercial centre, represents an especially valuable connection point for local exporters and tourism operators.
For South Australian businesses, the new route could offer both passenger and freight benefits. Chinese demand for southern rock lobster remains strong, and each flight is expected to carry up to 15 tonnes of cargo, making it easier for local exporters to access China’s growing consumer market.
The announcement was made as the China International Import Expo takes place in Shanghai, where Trade Minister Don Farrell is due to meet with China Eastern’s Chairman. South Australia’s ties with China remain deep, with the state exporting $3.6 billion worth of goods to China over the past year. That includes $731 million in wine, up 86 per cent, and $286 million in nuts, up 90 per cent.
The addition of China Eastern’s Shanghai service comes amid a period of expansion for Adelaide Airport’s international network. Cathay Pacific is set to resume flights to Hong Kong next week, and United Airlines will begin a seasonal route to San Francisco in December. Qantas and Air New Zealand have also recently launched new trans-Tasman services to Auckland and Christchurch.
Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox said the connection with Shanghai will play an important role in linking South Australia to both China and the wider world. He described the development as an opportunity to strengthen business and tourism links with one of the globe’s most dynamic cities.
The airport’s current and scheduled international services already include routes to Doha, Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Nadi, Denpasar, Auckland, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and San Francisco. The addition of Shanghai expands that list and reinforces Adelaide’s growing global reach.
For South Australia’s visitor economy, the timing could not be better. International tourism has reached a record $1.7 billion, up 33 per cent from last year, outpacing the national growth rate of 18 per cent. The China market alone is now worth $358 million annually, and the new flights are expected to give that figure an additional boost.
Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said the decision by China Eastern reflects South Australia’s strengthening profile as a global destination. She added that the growth of international routes is helping the state’s tourism sector reach new heights, while giving more overseas travellers direct access to local attractions.
Regional Development Minister Joe Szakacs described the route as a win for local jobs and trade. He said Shanghai represents South Australia’s most critical trading gateway, with the potential to support everything from seafood exports to international education and family visits.
“This is a great outcome for South Australia,” Szakacs said. “As our government continues to connect our state to the world’s biggest economies and tourism markets, local jobs and businesses are the greatest beneficiaries.”
The move also promises to make travel easier for the many South Australians with family ties to China, as well as for students returning to Adelaide after the summer break.
When China Eastern begins flying between Adelaide and Shanghai in 2026, it will mark a milestone moment in the city’s aviation story—one that strengthens its position as a global gateway for trade, tourism and connection.
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