Passengers wait in the departure lounge. [Photo/Datong Daily]

On Dec 18, flight SL8110 from Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport landed smoothly at Datong Yungang International Airport.

The flight marked the launch of the first international route of the previously domestic services-only airport – located in the Yunzhou district of Datong city in North China's Shanxi province – since its official opening as an international aviation hub.

The new route connects Datong with Bangkok, capital of Thailand, with two weekly flights scheduled every Wednesday and Saturday.

The flight departs Bangkok at 9:15 am and arrives in Datong at 3:00 pm, returning from Datong at 4:00 pm and landing in Bangkok at 7:50 pm – with all times being local times.

Passengers in the departure lounge have their tickets checked. [Photo/Datong Daily]

To ensure a seamless launch, Datong airport conducted specialized training, collaborated closely with the airlines and carried out comprehensive operational drills alongside customs and border control units.

This effort is said to have established a streamlined air corridor between Datong and Bangkok, paving the way for exchanges in various fields.

Moving forwards, plans are for Datong Yungang International Airport to leverage its status as an international port to expand connectivity, enhance the region's openness and seize new opportunities for civil aviation growth.

The airport aims to play a pivotal role in advancing China's transportation and aviation sectors while fostering international cooperation.

Passengers line up to board a plane. [Photo/Datong Daily]