Crew members on Tuesday celebrate the first flight from Vientiane to Zhanjiang.

Lao Airlines launches direct flight between Vientiane and Zhanjiang

Lao Airlines has inaugurated a direct flight between Vientiane and Zhanjiang in China, creating another important link between Laos and southern China.
​The inaugural flight, QV863, serviced by an Airbus A320, touched down at Zhanjiang Wuchuan International Airport on Tuesday evening. The aircraft was greeted with a traditional water salute, celebrating the airport’s first international service since its relocation in 2022.
​Flights are scheduled three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
​The service is expected to significantly reduce travel time and costs for residents of western Guangdong, who previously relied on major hubs like Guangzhou or Shenzhen for international departures.
​The launch comes at a strategic time, ahead of the 65th anniversary of China-Laos diplomatic relations. As Vientiane serves as the primary hub for the China-Laos Railway, this air link further strengthens the transport network between the two nations.
​Local authorities in Zhanjiang and airport officials said the new flight is part of a broader strategy to operate more direct flights from western Guangdong to Southeast Asian destinations, including Vietnam and Thailand.
​Situated on China’s southern coast, Zhanjiang is a vital gateway for trade and industry. The addition of direct flights to Vientiane is expected to boost tourism and people-to-people links, and provide new opportunities for cross-border investment within the framework of China-ASEAN cooperation.
The launch comes as Lao Airlines continues to broaden its international footprint. The national flag carrier’s network of scheduled flights currently extends to at least 10 international destinations and seven locations in Laos, complemented by charter flights to countries including China and South Korea.
​Currently, the airline operates regular international routes connecting Laos to South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and several cities in China.
​Founded in 1976, the Lao national flag carrier has evolved into a key regional player, maintaining interline and codeshare partnerships with over 30 airlines globally.
​The expansion into western Guangdong aligns with the airline’s growing number of partnerships. Recently, the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) sought to team up with Lao Airlines as part of efforts to expand its presence in Southeast Asia.

By Souksamai Boulom
(Latest Update December 26, 2025)