Royal Jordanian, Air China Sign Partnership Deal

Jordan and China’s flag carriers are moving closer to launching the first-ever nonstop service between the two countries’ capitals, after Royal Jordanian Airlines and Air China signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Aug. 23 to deepen cooperation between the two carriers.

The agreement aims to strengthen air transport ties between the two countries, broaden commercial and operational collaboration, and boost both airlines’ competitiveness in global markets. It also opens the door to new air routes, including the planned nonstop Amman-Beijing service—a connection that does not currently exist.

Under the MOU, the carriers will explore codeshare opportunities on key routes while leveraging their respective hubs. They also plan to cooperate on interline agreements, staff training, joint branding, ground handling, air cargo and inflight catering.

Royal Jordanian Vice Chairman and CEO Samer Majali said the deal supports the airline’s strategy to grow its presence in China and the wider Far East, noting that Beijing serves as a gateway to Asian markets while Amman anchors the Levant region.

Air China President Qu Guangji said the airline would fully support Royal Jordanian’s push for direct Amman-Beijing service, framing the partnership as a boost to tourism, business and cultural exchange between the two nations.

According to current data from OAG, Royal Jordanian connects Amman to 63 destinations in 33 countries this August, offering 682,000 two-way seats—part of a broader network of 722,200 seats, up 15.1% year over year.

Air China, by contrast, is operating close to 10.8 million seats this month, a 5.2% increase from last year, with its Beijing Capital hub serving 169 destinations, including 107 within mainland China.