Laings Welcome China Flight!

As key sponsors of the first direct flight between Scotland and China, Laings was delighted to be at Edinburgh Airport when the inaugural Hainan Airlines flight landed from Beijing.

Laings were pleased to be at Edinburgh Airport to welcome the first passengers to arrive from Beijing on the inaugural Hainan Airlines direct flight. As lead sponsors of the Edinburgh-China Air Link Project Scotland’s oldest family jewellers, Laings, are proud to have been part of the project that will benefit the city of Edinburgh, and Scotland as a whole.

On Tuesday 12th June, just after 5 am, they were excited to see the pinnacle of many years of hard work as the first direct flight landed.

Jonathan Payne, Managing Director of Laings noted: “When we first heard about the Edinburgh China Airlink Project we knew how important this would be for the tourism industry here in Edinburgh and we had no hesitation about getting involved. The Chinese market is hugely influential and we can’t wait to build a connection with the new visitors the direct flights bring.”

The project, delivered by Marketing Edinburgh, Edinburgh Airport and the City of Edinburgh Council will bring immediate rewards to Sottish businesses, bringing one of the most valuable tourist markets directly to the capital. The influx of new Chinese visitors will showcase Scotland as an exceptional destination, creating valuable word-of-mouth recommendations.

Hainan Airlines will run direct flights twice a week, accommodating passengers who are travelling for tourism or business. This exciting venture now connects two cities which have so much to offer. Mr Bao Qifa was delighted to be on board the first flight and he spoke of how he was looking forward to further cementing the good relationship that the two countries have, continuing to share our rich culture and heritage. 

Laings is now looking forward to welcoming the first visitors to their diamond and watch showroom in our Edinburgh Flagship Store during their stay!