Xiamen Airlines Revives Quanzhou-Cebu Direct Route to Meet Surging Travel Demand
In a significant boost to air connectivity between China and the Philippines, Xiamen Airlines has announced the resumption of direct flights between Quanzhou and Cebu, set to commence on March 29, 2026. The airline will operate this service twice weekly, specifically on Tuesdays and Saturdays, effectively re-establishing a vital link between Fujian province in China and Central Visayas in the Philippines.
Enhanced Air Links and Tourism Support
The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines confirmed this development through a Facebook post on February 13, 2026, highlighting that the route is designed to support both tourism and business travel. This move aligns with broader efforts to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and practical cooperation between the two nations. Additionally, Xiamen Airlines plans to increase flight frequencies between Xiamen and Manila, further improving air connectivity as travel demand continues its post-pandemic recovery.
Visa-Free Entry Boosts Travel Prospects
The revival of the Quanzhou-Cebu flights comes on the heels of the Philippines' implementation of a 14-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese nationals, effective from January 16, 2026. This privilege, valid for one year, applies to tourism or business purposes and is available at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Mactan-Cebu International Airport. To qualify, travelers must present a return or onward ticket, confirmed accommodation, and a passport with at least six months of validity.
Current Air Connectivity from Cebu
Cebu already maintains robust air links with key Chinese destinations. Presently, China Eastern Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights to Shanghai, while AirAsia offers three weekly flights to Macau. Furthermore, Cathay Pacific and Cebu Pacific provide connections to Hong Kong, with Cathay Pacific running twice-daily services. The addition of Xiamen Airlines' Quanzhou route is expected to further diversify and enhance travel options, catering to the growing demand for cross-border mobility.
