Air routes between China and South America are expected to become the next battlefield for airlines trying to cash in on the growing trade between the two sides of the Pacific Ocean. In a bid to get ahead in the market, Varig Brazilian Airlines, Brazil’s largest carrier, has launched code-share flights with Air China between the two countries.

In doing so, it has became the first South American airline to serve the Chinese market.

Air China will fly from Beijing and Shanghai to Frankfurt, while Varig will take passengers on from Frankfurt to Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

The total journey time will be shortened to 27 hours, including transfers. Passengers do not need a transit visa.

Previously, passengers travelling from China to Brazil had to travel for at least 30 hours.
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