Angola's state-owned airline is exploring a new direct route between Luanda and Guangzhou, China, according to Jornal de Angola. The proposed service would connect Angola's capital with Guangzhou, a major manufacturing hub in southern China. This move comes as the airline seeks to reverse its financial struggles and capitalize on growing trade ties between Angola and China.

Angola has been China's largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade exceeding $25 billion annually. Chinese investment in Angola's infrastructure and oil sector has been substantial since the end of the civil war in 2002. A direct air link could facilitate business travel and cargo transport, potentially boosting economic cooperation. The airline's current route network is limited, with most international flights routed through Lisbon or other European hubs.

The introduction of a Luanda-Guangzhou route would mark a strategic expansion for the carrier, which has faced mounting losses and operational challenges. Direct flights to China could attract both business travelers and tourists while reducing reliance on European connections. This development reflects Angola's broader efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil dependence and strengthen ties with key trading partners.