Chinese travellers flock to Central Asia as flight bookings soar 120% on pre-Covid levels
Chinese flight bookings to Central Asia have soared 120% above pre-Covid levels, driven by stronger economic ties under Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative. Passenger traffic to Central Asia grew 59.3% in 2023 from the previous year, one of the fastest growth rates among all regions.
Chinese travellers are flocking to Central Asia as flight bookings surge 120% above 2019 levels. The growth is attributed to Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative, which has strengthened economic ties between China and Central Asia. Passenger traffic to the region increased by 59.3% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Industry experts say the demand is driven by a mix of tourism, business travel, trade links, government exchanges, education, and visits to friends and relatives. In contrast, flight numbers to traditional American and European markets have yet to fully recover, with capacity to North America still less than 30% of 2019 levels as of March. The increased travel is a result of China's efforts to expand investment and influence in Central Asia over the past decade.
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