China Eastern Airlines' inaugural direct flight MU785 from Shanghai to Venice took off at 00:50 on Sept 26 from Shanghai Pudong International Airport, carrying nearly 230 passengers. This marks the first regular direct flight between China and Italy's Venice, offering a new travel option for the upcoming National Day holiday.

During the Shanghai-Venice Inaugural Flight Ceremony, Qin Yun, president of the Shanghai Airport Authority, emphasized the collaborative efforts of both Shanghai and Venice airports in establishing direct flight connections and the significance of the new route in enhancing exchanges and economic interactions between the two cities.

Wan Qingchao, deputy general manager of China Eastern Airlines, highlighted the company's commitment to expanding its global network. The Shanghai-Venice route, utilizing an Airbus A330 with high-speed WiFi, represents a major milestone in their international route expansion. The recent extension of China's visa exemption policy for Italian citizens until 2025 is expected to further boost travel and economic exchanges.

The MU785 and MU786 flights operate three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The outbound flight departs Shanghai at 00:50, arriving in Venice at 07:50 local time. The return flight leaves Venice at 11:30, landing in Shanghai the next calendar day at 05:30.