Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) marked a historic milestone this week with the launch of its first European air route under seventh-freedom traffic rights, signaling accelerated global connectivity for China's southern economic hub. Operated by Kazakhstan's SCAT Airlines, the new Sanya-Prague route began service on December 21, 2025, bypassing traditional aviation restrictions to link the Chinese mainland directly to Central Europe.
What Are Seventh-Freedom Rights? Unlike standard agreements requiring airlines to return to their home country, seventh-freedom rights permit foreign carriers to operate standalone routes between two foreign nations. This policy breakthrough enables Hainan FTP to attract international operators while expanding its role as a logistics gateway.
Economic Implications Analysts highlight the route’s potential to streamline trade flows between Asia and Europe, particularly for high-value goods like electronics and tropical agricultural products. The development aligns with Hainan’s 2025 strategic plan to establish itself as a key node in the Belt and Road Initiative’s aerial corridor.
The Czech Republic’s tourism sector also stands to benefit, with direct access to Hainan’s resort city of Sanya. Industry observers anticipate similar routes to follow, reinforcing the free trade port’s growing influence in global aviation networks.
