Capital Airlines Launches First-Ever Beijing Daxing–Lisbon Direct Flight for Summer 2026 — What European Travelers Need
Capital Airlines inaugurated the first direct route between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Lisbon, Portugal on June 22, 2026 — a seasonal summer connection operating for approximately three months. Here's what travelers on both ends need to know about schedules, booking, and connecting options.
Key takeaway
Beijing Capital Airlines launched the first direct flight between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Lisbon (LIS) on June 22, 2026. This is a seasonal summer route operating for approximately three months. Travelers from 50+ visa-free countries can enter China through this new gateway, and transit passengers may qualify for the 240-hour visa-free transit policy at Beijing Daxing.
Full report
What Changed
On June 22, 2026, Beijing Capital Airlines (a subsidiary of the HNA Group) inaugurated the first-ever direct air link between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Lisbon, Portugal. The inaugural flight departed Beijing Daxing and landed in Lisbon on the same day, marking the first nonstop connection between China's newest mega-hub airport and the Portuguese capital, according to the Global Times and The Portugal News.
This route is part of a broader push by Chinese carriers to expand international connectivity during the summer-autumn 2026 flight season, which began on March 29, 2026 and runs through October 24, 2026. According to the Portugal Resident, the seasonal service will operate for approximately three months, giving travelers a limited summer window to use this route.
Beijing Daxing International Airport, which opened in September 2019, now serves as a major international gateway with state-of-the-art facilities, including passport-friendly e-gates and English-language signage throughout. The airport processed over 49 million passengers in 2025 and is rapidly expanding its international route portfolio. This Lisbon route adds to recent Daxing launches including Milan (Air China, June 13) and an expanding network of European connections.
What to do next
- Check your visa eligibility — EU/Schengen passport holders enter China visa-free for 30 days; others may use 240-hour transit. 2. Book flights now on Capital Airlines website or Trip.com — seasonal routes sell out during August. 3. Set up Alipay/WeChat Pay with your foreign card before departure. 4. Download Beijing Daxing Airport app and plan your transfer to central Beijing (~28 min by express train). 5. Verify the route's exact seasonal end date with Capital Airlines 2-3 weeks before travel.
What may vary
The exact seasonal end date (announced as 'approximately three months') may shift based on demand and regulatory factors. Flight frequency may adjust mid-season. China's 30-day unilateral visa-free policy for 50+ countries expires December 31, 2026 and may or may not be extended. Aircraft type may vary by specific flight date.
FAQ
Is there a direct flight from Beijing to Lisbon in 2026?
Yes. Beijing Capital Airlines launched the first-ever direct route between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and Lisbon (LIS) on June 22, 2026. This is a seasonal summer service operating for approximately three months.
Do I need a visa to transit through Beijing Daxing on my way to Lisbon?
If transiting to a third country within 240 hours (10 days), you may qualify for China's visa-free transit at Beijing Daxing. You need a confirmed onward ticket and must enter/exit through designated ports. EU passport holders also qualify for 30-day visa-free entry.
How do I book the Beijing Daxing–Lisbon flight?
Book through Capital Airlines' official website, Trip.com, Ctrip, or authorized travel agents in China and Portugal. Seasonal routes have limited availability — book early, especially for August travel.
How long does the Beijing to Lisbon flight take?
Approximately 12–13 hours westbound and 11–12 hours eastbound, covering roughly 9,700 km.
Do I need a visa to fly Beijing Daxing–Lisbon if I'm transiting through China?
If you are transiting through Beijing Daxing to a third country within 240 hours (10 days), you may qualify for China's visa-free transit policy. You must hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country and enter/exit through one of the 37 designated ports (Beijing Daxing is included). EU/Portuguese passport holders can also enter China visa-free for up to 30 days under the unilateral visa-free policy.
How long is the Beijing Daxing to Lisbon flight?
The flight covers approximately 9,700 km and takes roughly 12–13 hours westbound (Beijing to Lisbon) and 11–12 hours eastbound (Lisbon to Beijing), depending on wind conditions and routing.
Can I book this flight on Trip.com or other international OTAs?
Yes. The Capital Airlines Beijing Daxing–Lisbon route should be bookable through major online travel agencies including Trip.com, Ctrip, and select European OTAs. You can also book directly on the Capital Airlines official website or through authorized travel agents in both China and Portugal.