Air China is launching new service from Beijing to Sao Paulo, Brazil, via the Spanish capital Madrid, starting Sunday, December 10.

This new route will be the world's only direct, same-plane air service between China and Brazil. Prior to the new service, passengers between the two countries must connect across airlines in nearly a 30-hour journey. Air China's new service offers two non-stop legs and a 90-minute lay-over in Madrid, making the journey quicker, easier, and more efficient.

With the new route Air China will extend its global network into South America, bringing better air service not only to Brazil but also to Latin American countries such as Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay. The Air China route will thereby further support political, economic, trade, and cultural ties between China and Latin America.

"We are excited to offer our customers this excellent new option for travel between China and Brazil," said Mrs. Zhang Lan, Vice President of Air China. "As China's premier flag carrier, we are committed to the service and network that China and the global travel market expect of us. Our new aircraft, onboard service, and this new Beijing-Madrid-Sao Paulo route all embody that commitment."

The new service will depart Beijing every Thursday and Sunday at 1:00 a.m., arrive in Madrid at 6:45 a.m., depart again at 8:15 a.m., and on the same day touch down at Sao Paulo, Brazil, at 4:05 p.m. (all times local). The return flight departs Sao Paulo Thursdays and Sundays at 8:45 p.m., arrives the next morning in Madrid at 9:55 a.m. (+1), departs at 11:35 a.m., and arrives in Beijing the following morning at 6:20 a.m. (+2).