From China to Cuba: Russian airlines have expanded the list of international flights

The Association of Tour Operators of Russia reported an increase in the fleet of aircraft that domestic airlines will be able to use for foreign flights. Experts estimate that in 2024 the share of international flights could rise to 33%.

In the past year, airlines have expanded their list of foreign destinations as part of their winter schedule. For example, Aeroflot opened a flight program to a number of popular tourist destinations in December, the company’s press service previously reported.

As part of expanding cooperation with China, the carrier continues to increase the number of flights. So, on December 27, the company launched regular flights to the Chinese city of Sanya on the resort island of Hainan. The company noted that the planes will fly twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays from the capital’s Sheremetyevo. In addition, the airline resumed flights to Hong Kong for the first time since 2020. During the winter season, flights will operate three times a week: on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Another popular destination for winter holidays for Russians is the island of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. Travelers are attracted here by the mild climate, numerous Hindu temples, distinctive architecture and picturesque beaches where you can snorkel, surf and sunbathe.

The Aeroflot press service recalled that Rossiya Airlines planes have been regularly flying to the capital of the island, Colombo, from Moscow since December 26. Departures operate four times a week: on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. In addition, the carrier launched regular flights to Cuban Havana, Vietnamese Ho Chi Minh City and a number of other foreign destinations.

“Russians have adapted, got used to it, people need to fly abroad: people have studies, work, real estate, family and other travel purposes. And tourists have cast aside many fears and are increasingly returning to planning international trips,” summarized ATOR experts.