Spain, US and India to Receive New Direct Flights as Sichuan, Starlux and Royal Jordanian Expand Intercontinental Networks in 2025

Madrid is fast becoming a major European hub for Chinese air connectivity, now linked nonstop to seven Chinese cities. Passenger demand for the Chengdu-Madrid route surged in 2024, registering 5,300 two-way passengers, a 139% increase over 2023.

This route reflects a broader trend: Chinese airlines are aggressively expanding their European footprint, taking advantage of reduced competition from European carriers affected by airspace restrictions over Russia. The Madrid-Chengdu service is strategically timed to capitalize on this opportunity.

After more than a decade, Royal Jordanian is re-establishing its presence in India with the launch of nonstop flights between Amman and Mumbai, beginning April 17, 2025. The service will operate four times weekly using Airbus A320neo aircraft in a dual-class layout.

The move comes as demand for travel between India and the Middle East continues to grow, supported by expanding trade ties, tourism, and a large Indian expatriate population in the region. While the India-Jordan market lacked direct flights in 2024, there were still 57,000 two-way passengers, despite a 28% year-over-year decline attributed to regional instability due to the Israel-Hamas war.

These new routes from Sichuan Airlines, Starlux Airlines, and Royal Jordanian represent a bold expansion of global aviation ties across Europe, North America, and South Asia. With rising passenger demand and strategic geographic positioning, each carrier is aiming to secure a stronger foothold in long-haul markets, while meeting the evolving travel needs of global passengers in 2025.