Air China Launches Daily Beijing Daxing–Milan Direct Flights on June 13, 2026 — First Italy Route from Daxing
Air China launched daily direct flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Milan Malpensa on June 13, 2026, marking the first scheduled non-stop passenger route from Daxing to Italy. European travelers gain a new daily gateway to Beijing.
Key takeaway
Air China launched daily direct flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) on June 13, 2026. This is the first scheduled non-stop passenger route from Daxing Airport to Italy. The daily service gives European travelers a new direct gateway to Beijing, complementing existing Air China flights from Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) to Milan.
Full report
What Changed
On June 13, 2026, Air China flight CA749 departed Beijing Daxing International Airport at approximately 13:00 local time, officially inaugurating the first non-stop passenger service between Daxing and Milan, according to the Beijing Municipal Government. The route operates daily, providing consistent year-round connectivity.
SEA Milan Airports confirmed the launch on June 18, 2026, noting that this service adds Milan Malpensa to Daxing Airport's growing international network. The route uses Air China's wide-body aircraft and connects two major aviation hubs.
This is significant because Beijing Daxing International Airport — the starfish-shaped mega-hub that opened in September 2019 — has been steadily expanding its international route portfolio. The Milan route is its first scheduled non-stop passenger connection to Italy, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
Prior to this launch, travelers between Beijing and Milan relied on flights through Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or connecting routes through other European hubs. The new Daxing–Milan service offers an alternative gateway, particularly convenient for travelers originating from or heading to southern Beijing, Hebei Province, and Tianjin — areas better served by Daxing than Capital Airport.
What to do next
- Check Air China's website (airchina.com) for Daxing–Milan flight availability and fares. 2. Verify your visa or visa-free transit eligibility on the National Immigration Administration (NIA) website before booking. 3. Plan ground transportation: from Daxing Airport take the Airport Express to Caoqiao Station (20 min), then Metro Line 10. From Milan Malpensa take the Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale (50 min).
What may vary
Flight schedules may adjust between summer and winter seasons. Summer 2026 is the inaugural season; winter 2026-2027 frequencies are not yet confirmed. Aircraft type may vary based on seasonal demand. Ticket prices fluctuate with booking lead time, season, and fare class. Check Air China's official website for the latest timetable.
FAQ
Is this Air China's first direct Beijing–Milan route?
No, Air China already flies between Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) and Milan Malpensa. This new June 13, 2026 route is the first direct connection from Beijing Daxing Airport (PKX) to Milan.
Do I need a visa to transit through Beijing Daxing Airport?
Many nationalities qualify for China's 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy which applies to Beijing. Eligibility depends on nationality and onward travel to a third country. Check the National Immigration Administration (NIA) website for the most current list.
How do I get from Beijing Daxing Airport to central Beijing?
The Daxing Airport Express train connects to Caoqiao Station (Metro Line 10) in about 20 minutes, costing approximately ¥35. Taxis take 50-70 minutes to central Beijing and cost approximately ¥150-200.
What documents do I need to fly this Daxing–Milan route?
A valid passport with at least six months remaining validity, plus any required Chinese visa or transit documentation. If using visa-free transit, carry proof of confirmed onward travel to a third country within 240 hours.
What documents does a foreigner need to fly this route?
A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and any required Chinese visa or transit documentation. European travelers should also carry proof of onward travel if using visa-free transit. Always verify entry requirements with both Chinese and Italian authorities before travel.