Chinese carrier Hainan Airlines is to raise frequency from Manchester airport with a fifth weekly flight.
The service will rise from four flights a week from June 1, with the airline tipped to use new Boeing 787 Dreamliners on the route to Beijing, depending on aircraft availability.
It is the only direct service to mainland China outside of London.
UK general manager, Loic Gao, said: “This added frequency shows Hainan Airlines commitment to the UK market and it responds to the increased demand for this route from Manchester airport.
“This has been a successful route for Hainan Airlines since its inaugural flight on June 10, 2016, and as we approach our first year anniversary, an increased frequency is a wonderful way of celebrating such success”
Airport commercial director, Stephen Turner, added: “It is incredibly pleasing to see Hainan Airlines increase frequency from Manchester airport.
“In less than a year of operation, the route proves to be incredibly popular with leisure and business passengers alike.
“Hainan’s five star service offers passengers a luxury product all the way to Beijing and beyond and we look forward to continuing to work closely with the airline as they grow from the North’s global gateway.”