On June 3, the MR856 flight, filled with enthusiastic travelers, departed from Datong Yungang International Airport for Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia.

This maiden flight marks the launch of the first direct air route from Shanxi province to Mongolia, paving a new path for inbound tourism to the region.

Operated by Hunnu Air, the service offers two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The flight from Datong departs at 13:40 and arrives in Ulaanbaatar at 15:30. The return flight leaves Ulaanbaatar at 11:00 and lands in Datong at 12:40.

One-way tickets start at 499 yuan ($69) from Datong to Ulaanbaatar and 599 yuan from Ulaanbaatar to Datong. Tickets can be purchased through major travel agencies and online platforms.

The day of the maiden flight also saw the arrival of Shanxi's first inbound tour group from Mongolia, organized by a local travel agency. This event marks a significant milestone in Shanxi's tourism industry, fostering new opportunities for cultural and tourism exchanges.