First Flight from Chengdu, China, to the Seychelles
Seychelles has embarked on an exciting new chapter in the realm of tourism connectivity with the arrival of the inaugural direct, non-stop charter flight from Chengdu, China, operated by Sichuan Airlines. This landmark event took place early on November 19, 2024, at Seychelles International Airport, where the flight received a warm welcome marked by a ceremonial water cannon salute, symbolizing the significance of this occasion. The introduction of this flight is a result of Seychelles' strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with China, particularly in light of the latter's rapidly expanding outbound tourism market.
This initiative was set in motion during the visit of Seychelles' President Wavel Ramkalawan to Sichuan Province, which occurred on the sidelines of the Ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing from September 4-6, 2024. This direct flight is anticipated to significantly enhance travel options available to Chinese tourists, thereby providing a much-needed boost to Seychelles’ tourism sector. Upon their arrival, passengers were treated to an authentic Creole welcome that embodied the vibrant culture of the islands. Traditional garlands made of colorful flowers were presented to them, and they were further delighted by live performances showcasing Seychelles’ unique music and dance. This exceptional reception created an exhilarating and festive atmosphere, setting a joyful tone for the visitors’ island holidays. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, by mid-September 2024, Seychelles had welcomed 2,035 Chinese visitors, marking a remarkable 87% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
The introduction of this direct route is expected to further amplify these impressive numbers, thereby fostering not only stronger tourism but also enriching cultural exchanges between Seychelles and China. The direct connectivity established by Sichuan Airlines positions Seychelles as a highly convenient and attractive destination for Chinese travelers seeking unique experiences. This development is in line with Seychelles’ broader tourism strategy, which aims to diversify its source markets and increase visitor arrivals through effective and strategic air partnerships. This remarkable milestone reaffirms Seychelles’ commitment to expanding its global outreach while simultaneously providing Chinese travelers with a seamless opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the archipelago. The arrival of this direct flight highlights the immense potential of aviation partnerships to transform the tourism landscape, heralding a promising and mutually beneficial future for both Seychelles and China’s travel sectors. With this new route, the foundations for an enriching relationship between the two nations are firmly in place, opening doors to future opportunities in tourism and cultural exchange.
