China Eastern Airlines' flight MU217 arrived at Geneva International Airport in Switzerland from the Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Monday (June 16) with 243 passengers onboard, marking its inaugural flight operated by the Shanghai-based carrier.

The carrier also becomes the first Chinese airliner to operate the route.

The Shanghai-Geneva flight will service four round trips per week between the two cities, specifically on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Situated in southwestern Switzerland, Geneva is an important center for diplomacy and international affairs in Europe. Known as the peace capital of the world, Geneva is home to the headquarters of many international organizations and also a popular global tourism destination famous for its Lake Geneva, the Alps, among its rich cultural heritage.

The year 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland. The newly launched direct flight is poised to boost business, tourism and people-to-people exchanges between China and Europe.