Can Kiwis Enjoy Visa-Free Travel to China with Hainan Airlines’ Affordable Economy Flights? – Travel And Tour World

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In recent news, New Zealand passport holders can now enjoy visa-free entry into China. This development, effective immediately, will significantly impact travelers by saving them around $140, the previous cost of a single-entry tourist visa. The ease of access is expected to increase travel between New Zealand and China, enhancing cultural exchange and boosting tourism. This move will likely have a ripple effect on the global travel industry, making China an even more attractive destination for travelers from New Zealand.

Flying Economy with Hainan Airlines

Hainan Airlines, the fourth-largest airline in China, is recognized as a five-star airline by Skytrax. Marketed as an affordable option, the airline offers round-trip flights to Beijing for prices ranging from $400 to $800. The airline resumed its New Zealand services in mid-June last year, having initially started operations in late 2016 but halted due to the pandemic in 2020. Here’s a look at what it’s like to fly economy from Auckland to Hainan on a Hainan Airlines 787 Dreamliner, shared by Jaime Lyth.

Flight Details and Requirements

The flight departs from Auckland International Airport and arrives at Haikou Meilan International Airport in Hainan. Direct flights to Shenzhen or Haikou are available from Auckland, while other destinations in China usually require one stopover. The visa-free entry announcement simplifies travel for New Zealand passport holders, allowing seamless travel to China without the additional cost and hassle of obtaining a visa.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Surprisingly, the in-flight entertainment on Hainan Airlines was commendable for an affordable airline. Each seat comes equipped with a 23cm-30cm personal entertainment screen, complete with headphones. The selection includes a wide range of international and Hollywood films and TV series, all included in the flight price. USB ports are available on newer aircraft for charging devices. However, Wi-Fi comes at an additional cost, approximately $50 for the standard plan for the flight duration.

Seating and Comfort

Economy class seats on long-haul flights have a pitch between 79cm-81cm. While the seats were generally comfortable, the lack of a footrest posed a challenge, particularly for those with shorter legs. Each passenger was provided with a “Fly Well” kit, which included socks, an eye mask, a toothbrush with toothpaste, and earplugs. Additionally, blankets and pillows were available at each seat, enhancing comfort on the long flight.

Exceptional Crew Service

The crew on Hainan Airlines went above and beyond, standing out for their attentiveness. Unlike typical economy flights, the crew was responsive to individual requests, such as providing extra water outside of the regular beverage service times. This level of service was a highlight for many passengers.

Passenger Demographics and Safety

The flight was nearly full, with a diverse age range among the passengers. Interestingly, only a few people chose to wear masks, reflecting a relaxed approach to COVID-19 precautions on board.

Catering to Dietary Needs

The food and beverage service on Hainan Airlines was adequate, with a focus on catering to various dietary requirements. As a vegetarian, Jaime confirmed her meal preference through the airline’s website before the flight. She was served a cheesy tomato vegetable pasta, a capsicum and spinach salad, and a raspberry and chocolate mousse slice for dessert. The beverages were generous, with frequent top-ups offered.

Arrival Experience

The 12-hour, 15-minute flight arrived on schedule, with a smooth immigration and baggage collection process at Haikou Meilan International Airport. The ease of the arrival process added to the overall positive experience.

Highlights and Drawbacks

The crew’s attentiveness and the selection of Korean films were notable highlights of the flight. However, the lack of a footrest was a significant drawback, particularly for shorter passengers.

Final Verdict

Jaime flew alongside a group of travel agents, all experiencing Hainan Airlines for the first time. The group collectively agreed that they were pleasantly surprised by the experience, particularly noting the crew’s friendliness. Compared to other budget airlines, Hainan Airlines offers superior service in economy class, making it a preferred choice for many travelers.

Global Impact on Travel

This development is poised to impact the global travel industry, particularly for travelers from New Zealand to China. The combination of visa-free entry and a positive in-flight experience with Hainan Airlines enhances the attractiveness of China as a travel destination. This change is expected to increase tourism and strengthen the travel industry ties between the two countries, ultimately benefiting travelers with more accessible and enjoyable travel options.