Heathrow Airport has launched its first direct flight to Zhengzhou, operated by China Southern Airlines twice a week using a Boeing 787-8.

The route to one of China’s eight ancient capital cities will offer 2,080 tonnes of cargo capacity a year to the key manufacturing hub and business destination.

About 70% of Apple iPhones sold worldwide are manufactured in Zhengzhou, and is also one of the most important textile centres in China.

Heathrow now offers 13 direct connections to China, allowing exports to grow by 135% from 2018 compared to 2017, totalling over £7 billion.

Ross Baker, chief commercial officer of Heathrow Airport says: “The launch of our new route to Zhengzhou is an exciting opportunity for passengers and will provide Europe’s only direct connection to this unique Chinese destination. At Heathrow, we are committed to opening-up more routes to China as part of our strategy to drive forward the UK’s global connectivity for years to come.”