Sanya, a popular tropical destination on China's Hainan Island, is strengthening its international air connections with Southeast Asia.
On October 10, 2026, Sanya Phoenix International Airport announced the resumption of two international passenger routes connecting the city with Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Phnom Penh.
The restored services provide additional travel options for international visitors planning a holiday in Hainan or considering a longer journey across China.
Two International Routes Resume Operations
According to Sanya Phoenix International Airport, the restored services include:
Phnom Penh – Sanya – Singapore
Operated by Cambodia Airways, this route connects Cambodia, China, and Singapore through Sanya.
The service operates twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Flights arriving from Phnom Penh are scheduled to land in Sanya at 11:30 AM before departing for Singapore at 12:30 PM.
The return service from Singapore is scheduled to arrive in Sanya at 7:45 PM and continue to Phnom Penh at 8:45 PM.
The route operates under fifth-freedom traffic rights, supporting passenger travel between the three destinations.
Sanya – Kuala Lumpur
Operated by Batik Air, the restored route connects Sanya directly with Malaysia's capital.
The service initially operates once weekly on Saturdays, with plans to increase to twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, following the seasonal schedule change.
Flight OD630 is scheduled to depart Kuala Lumpur at 5:45 PM and arrive in Sanya at 8:55 PM.
The return flight, OD631, departs Sanya at 10:05 PM and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 1:25 AM the following day.
All times are local and subject to airline schedule changes.
More Travel Options for Visitors from Singapore and Malaysia
The restored connections are particularly relevant to travelers from Singapore and Malaysia, two important Southeast Asian markets for travel to China.
For visitors from Singapore, the Phnom Penh–Sanya–Singapore route provides an additional option for reaching Hainan.
For Malaysian travelers, the Kuala Lumpur–Sanya service offers a direct air connection to the island.
Improved international connectivity can make it easier to include Sanya in a China holiday, whether as a beach destination or the starting point for a longer itinerary.
Travelers should check flight availability, schedules, and entry requirements before making reservations.
Sanya Strengthens Its Role in China's International Tourism Network
Known for its tropical beaches, coastal resorts, and warm climate, Sanya offers a different side of China from the country's major historical and cultural destinations.
The expansion of international air connections supports Hainan's efforts to attract more overseas visitors and strengthen tourism exchanges with Southeast Asia.
Sanya Phoenix International Airport also announced additional planned international services.
Firefly is scheduled to launch another Sanya–Kuala Lumpur route on October 14, while Juneyao Air plans to resume Sanya–Ulaanbaatar flights on November 3.
These services were announced as upcoming operations and remain subject to airline schedules and operational arrangements.
Combining Sanya with Other China Destinations
For international travelers planning a longer holiday, Sanya can be combined with other destinations across China.
Visitors may consider pairing a relaxing beach stay with cultural, historical, or natural attractions elsewhere in the country.
Popular combinations could include:
Sanya and Beijing: Tropical beaches, the Great Wall, and China's imperial history.
Sanya and Shanghai: Coastal relaxation followed by modern city experiences and traditional gardens.
Sanya and Chengdu: Beach resorts, giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, and local culture.
Sanya and Guilin: Tropical coastlines, limestone mountains, and scenic river landscapes.
These are suggested itinerary combinations rather than fixed tour packages or confirmed direct-flight connections.
Actual travel arrangements depend on domestic transport schedules, available time, and individual entry eligibility.
Important Visa and Travel Information
China offers various visa-free entry arrangements for eligible international travelers, including policies applicable to Hainan.
However, travelers should confirm the entry rules that apply to their nationality and complete itinerary.
Visitors entering under a Hainan-specific visa-free arrangement should not assume that the same permission automatically allows unrestricted travel to other parts of mainland China.
Before booking a multi-city trip, travelers should verify their visa eligibility, permitted destinations, and length of stay through official Chinese immigration or diplomatic sources.
Plan Your China Journey with SEEK CHINA TRAVEL
At SEEK CHINA TRAVEL (SCT), we help international travelers explore China through private and tailor-made journeys.
Whether you're interested in tropical beaches, historic cities, spectacular natural scenery, or authentic local experiences, our team can help design an itinerary around your interests and preferred travel pace.
From transportation and accommodation to local guides and sightseeing arrangements, we make it easier to discover different sides of China in one journey.
Private & Tailor-Made China Tours. No unnecessary shopping stops. No hidden fees.
Discover China. Your Way.
Sources & References
Sanya Phoenix International Airport — October 10, 2026
Official announcement: Sanya Airport Resumes Two International Routes to Strengthen ASEAN Air Connectivity
https://www.sanyaairport.com/jcxw.jhtml
Hainan Daily / People's Daily Online — October 11, 2026
三亚机场恢复两条国际航线
https://hi.people.com.cn/n2/2026/1011/c231190-41718504.html
Flight schedules reflect published announcements and may change. Travelers should verify current flight operations and entry requirements before departure.