Chart of the Day: China's May Day Travel Surges to Record Highs

China’s tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence during this year’s May Day holiday, driven by the introduction of new summer-autumn flight routes. The increased connectivity is encouraging millions of travelers to explore both domestic and international destinations, signifying a robust rebound for the country’s travel industry.

From May 1 to 5, nationwide cross-regional passenger trips soared to 1.467 billion, with a daily average of 293 million. This figure marks an impressive eight percent growth compared to last year, highlighting mounting public enthusiasm for travel and the success of recent transport infrastructure upgrades. Popular tourist cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou, have reported record hotel occupancy rates, bustling scenic spots, and heightened activity at airports and railway stations.

The civil aviation sector is playing a pivotal role in this travel boom. As the 2025 summer-autumn flight season gets underway, running from March 30 to October 25, airlines are rapidly expanding their route networks. This expansion includes not only more frequent domestic flights but also the launch of numerous international routes. The move aligns with China’s broader commitment to enhancing its global air connectivity and meeting the rising demand for cross-border journeys brought about by economic recovery and relaxed visa policies.

According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the emphasis on international network development underscores a strategic push to attract foreign tourists and foster stronger business ties worldwide. Industry analysts suggest that with these upgrades, China is well-positioned to reclaim its place as one of the world’s top travel markets. The tangible excitement among travelers and positive economic indicators point to a prosperous outlook for China’s tourism and aviation sectors in the months ahead.