China Eastern Airlines launches direct flight between Shanghai and Venice

Launching flights to 112 international destinations in 48 countries, Shanghai's two airports handled more than 83 million passenger trips in the first eight months this year, up 36 percent year-on-year, according to Qin.

"Among all, up to 23 million passenger trips are inbound and outbound travelers, soaring 119 percent year-on-year," said Qin, adding that the group will continue to enhance its network and service while Shanghai is aiming to build into a world-class aviation hub.

China announced the waiving of visa requirements for Italian visitors in May, and the visa-free policy to Italy will be effective until December 31, 2025. Ordinary passport holders from the country can enjoy visa-free travel to China for up to 15 days.

"China's visa-free policy to Italy is expected to further boost communications and trades between the two nations," said Wan Qingchao, executive vice-president of China Eastern Air Holding Co Ltd.

"Against this backdrop, China Eastern has launched four flights between China and Italy as of the end of September. And the aviation between the two countries will further promote communications and exchanges between China and Europe as a whole," said Wan.