China’s Largest Airline Suspends Beijing–Moscow Route Until Spring

China Southern Airlines, the largest airline in China, announced on January 13 that it will suspend direct flights on the Moscow–Beijing route from January 20 to March 30, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia.

The flight, numbered CZ342, was initially scheduled to operate daily. However, ticket bookings on the airline's website are only available until January 19. Sales resume after the winter schedule ends on March 30.

During this period, alternative options remain available, including flights with a layover in Guangzhou or routes like Shenzhen–Moscow and Vladivostok–Yangtze.

The Association of Tour Operators of Russia estimates that the suspension could affect approximately 15,000 to 17,000 passengers.

On January 10, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency issued stricter recommendations regarding the use of Russian airspace, advising airlines operating flights to the EU to avoid five specific regions in Russia.

Previously, it was reported that Russia continues to fly passenger planes without proper maintenance or access to necessary electronics, which are unavailable due to sanctions.