BEIJING - Hainan Airlines announced Wednesday the launch of a route from eastern China's Hangzhou, via northwestern city of Xi'an, to Paris, its fifth route to Europe.

The new route will use Airbus' A330-200 aircraft to fly twice a week in both directions on Thursdays and Sundays, the company said.

Xin Di, chairman of Hainan Airlines, said the launch of the new route will provide a more convenient bridge for further Sino-French exchanges in all respects, as this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France.

Currently, Hainan Airlines also fly to European destinations Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Brussels and Berlin.