Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) has inaugurated its first operational seventh freedom air route, connecting Sanya, China, with Prague, Czech Republic. This marks a significant milestone in the island’s aviation sector opening-up.
Operated by Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines, the route uses a Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, with one round-trip flight scheduled weekly. Flight DV481 departs from Sanya Phoenix International Airport, offering non-stop travel between the two destinations and eliminating the need for a layover in the airline’s home country - which is a key aspect of seventh-freedom rights.
The launch aligns with China’s broader plan to implement a more open aviation policy for Hainan FTP, including pilot programs for seventh freedom rights. The new route enhances Hainan’s status as an international aviation hub, providing travelers with a convenient direct link between Sanya’s tropical landscapes and Prague’s historic charm.