Planning a trip from the United Kingdom to China?
Here’s your up-to-date guide to all direct flights, essential travel requirements, and practical tips for a smooth journey from London, Manchester, Edinburgh and other UK cities.
Latest Travel Requirements (as of September 2025)
- COVID-19 Restrictions: As of November 1, 2023, travelers to China are no longer required to present a PCR or Rapid Antigen Test before entry. The China Health Declaration Form is also no longer needed.
- Visa: Ensure your Chinese visa is valid for your intended travel dates. Check the latest visa requirements here.
- Other Health & Safety: No additional health forms are currently required, but always check with your airline for last-minute updates.
Direct Flight Options
Below is a list of direct flights from major UK cities to China, including frequency information for better trip planning.
For the best fares and up-to-date schedules, click the airline links to book directly.
| Route | Airline & Flight | Frequency | Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh → Beijing | Hainan Airlines HU408 | Wed, Fri, Sun | Book |
| London Heathrow → Beijing Capital | Air China CA856 | Daily | Book |
| London Heathrow → Beijing Capital | Air China CA938 | Daily | Book |
| London Heathrow → Beijing Daxing | China Southern CZ674 | Tue, Thu, Sat | Book |
| London Heathrow → Changsha | Hainan Airlines HU7964 | Mon, Wed, Fri | Book |
| London Heathro → Chengdu Tianfu | Air China CA424 | Tue, Thu, Sun | Book |
| London Heathrow → Chongqing | Tianjin Airlines GS7966 | Wed, Sat | Book |
| London Heathrow → Guangzhou | China Southern CZ304 | Daily | Book |
| London Heathrow → Haikou | Hainan Airlines HU7912 | Mon, Thu | Book |
| London Heathrow → Qingdao | Capital Airlines JD432 | Tue, Fri | Book |
| London Heathrow → Shanghai Pudong | British Airways BA169 | Daily | Book |
| London Heathrow → Shanghai Pudong | China Eastern MU552 | Daily | Book |
| London Heathrow → Shenzhen | Shenzhen Airlines ZH888 | Wed, Fri, Sun | Book |
| London Heathrow → Wuhan | China Southern CZ608 | Mon, Thu, Sat | Book |
| London Heathrow → Xi’an | Tianjin Airlines GS7988 | Tue, Sat | Book |
| Manchester → Beijing Capital | Air China CA852 | Tue, Thu, Sun | Book |
| Manchester → Guangzhou | China Southern CZ690 | Wed, Fri, Sun | Book |
| Manchester → Qingdao | Capital Airlines JD484 | Sat | Book |
| Manchester → Shanghai Pudong | Air China CA848 | Mon, Wed, Fri | Book |
| Manchester → Shanghai Pudong | China Eastern MU202 | Daily | Book |
| Manchester → Shanghai Pudong | China Eastern MU214 | Tue, Thu, Sat | Book |
| Manchester → Zhengzhou | China Southern CZ654 | Mon, Thu | Book |
| Manchester → Beijing Capital | Hainan Airlines HU754 | Wed, Sat | Book |
| Manchester → Shanghai Pudong | Juneyao Airlines HO1662 | Tue, Fri | Book |
Practical Tips
- Flight Duration: Direct flights from the UK to China typically take 10–12 hours, making them some of the most convenient routes from Europe to Asia.
- Baggage Allowance: Check your airline’s website for the latest baggage policies, as these vary significantly between British Airways, Chinese carriers, and budget airlines.
- In-Flight Services: Major carriers like British Airways, Air China, and China Eastern offer comprehensive meal services, entertainment systems, and Wi-Fi on most long-haul routes.
- Multiple Airports: London flights primarily depart from Heathrow (LHR), while Manchester (MAN) and Edinburgh (EDI) offer additional options for northern UK travelers.
- Peak Travel Times: Prices and availability fluctuate during Chinese holidays (Chinese New Year, Golden Week), UK school holidays, and summer vacation periods. Book well in advance for these times.
- Time Zone Difference: China is 7-8 hours ahead of the UK (depending on daylight saving time), which helps minimize jet lag for eastbound travel.
- Connecting Options: If direct flights don’t suit your schedule, consider connections through Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai or Doha for potentially better prices.
Why Choose UK-China Direct Routes?
The UK offers one of the most comprehensive networks of direct flights to China from Europe, with multiple daily options to major Chinese cities.
This makes it particularly convenient for business travelers and tourists alike, with competitive pricing and excellent service standards.
Additional Resources
For the latest updates, always confirm flight schedules and entry requirements with your airline before booking.
Flight schedules can change seasonally, and some routes may be subject to diplomatic agreements between the UK and China.
