China Eastern Resumes Shanghai–Stockholm Direct Flights After 6-Year Hiatus (2026) — What European Travelers Need to Know
China Eastern Airlines restarts direct Shanghai Pudong–Stockholm Arlanda flights on June 22, 2026 after a 6-year suspension. Three weekly flights on Airbus A350-900 aircraft give European travelers a direct China entry option.
Key takeaway
China Eastern Airlines is resuming direct flights between Shanghai Pudong (PVG) and Stockholm Arlanda (ARN) on June 22, 2026, after a six-year suspension. The route will operate three times per week (Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays) using an Airbus A350-900 aircraft. European travelers, especially from the Nordic region, now have a direct flight option to China without needing a connection through other European or Middle Eastern hubs. Swedish passport holders can also take advantage of China's 30-day visa-free entry policy.
Full report
What Changed
According to Swedavia, the official operator of Sweden's airports, China Eastern Airlines (MU) will launch its Stockholm–Shanghai service on June 22, 2026. Flight MU289 will depart Stockholm Arlanda at approximately 20:10 local time, arriving at Shanghai Pudong the following day. The return flight MU290 will depart Shanghai at approximately 22:40 local time.
The route was suspended in 2020 during the global pandemic and has remained inactive for six years. As reported by AeroTime, the resumption is part of a broader wave of Europe-Asia route launches in June 2026, with Aviation Week identifying Europe-Asia as one of the most active markets this month.
China Eastern will operate the route with its Airbus A350-900 fleet, a modern wide-body aircraft configured with business, premium economy, and economy class cabins. All flights will be handled at Terminal 5 of Stockholm Arlanda Airport.
What to do next
- Search for PVG–ARN or ARN–PVG on the China Eastern official website or app starting June 22. 2. Verify your visa-free eligibility on the National Immigration Administration website. 3. Book connecting domestic transport from Shanghai Pudong if your final destination is elsewhere in China.
What may vary
Flight schedules, aircraft assignments, and terminal gates are subject to operational changes by China Eastern and Swedavia. China's 30-day visa-free entry policy for 50 countries is a temporary measure valid through December 31, 2026, and may be extended or modified. Always confirm your nationality's eligibility with official sources before booking.
FAQ
When does the first China Eastern direct flight from Stockholm to Shanghai depart?
The first flight MU289 departs Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) on Monday, June 22, 2026 at approximately 20:10 local time, arriving at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) the following day.
How often do the Shanghai–Stockholm direct flights operate?
Three times per week — on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Flight MU289 goes Stockholm to Shanghai; MU290 returns Shanghai to Stockholm.
Do I need a visa to fly this route as a Swedish passport holder?
Swedish citizens holding ordinary passports are eligible for China's unilateral 30-day visa-free entry policy, currently valid through December 31, 2026. Always verify your eligibility on the National Immigration Administration website before booking.