Xiamen – September 09, 2026 -- XiamenAir's inaugural flight MF821 landed at Heathrow Airport on September 6, launching a direct round-trip service between Xiamen and London. The 12-hour flight departed from Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport carrying 263 passengers, marking Fujian province's first direct passenger service to the British capital.
The route eliminates layovers for travelers between Fujian and the UK
Previously, passengers flying between the two cities needed to stop over in a third destination. The new nonstop service now directly connects Xiamen and London, cutting travel time and simplifying logistics for business travelers, students, and the sizable Chinese community from Fujian living in the UK.
Boeing 787 Dreamliners will fly the route three times weekly
XiamenAir will operate the service on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays using Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Flight MF821 departs Xiamen at 00:50 and arrives in London at 06:35. The return flight, MF822, departs London at 12:35 and lands in Xiamen at 07:00 the following day, local time.
Flight timing is designed to ease connections and jet lag
The early morning arrival in London gives business travelers time to start their working day and connect onward to other European cities. The midday departure from London allows passengers to link up with domestic flights while easing jet lag on the return journey. Travelers can also connect to XiamenAir's wider network and use a 15-second smart customs clearance system at Xiamen Airport.
The inaugural flight featured a Britain-meets-Xiamen theme
Billed as "Egret Island's Sea Breeze and British Charm,