China’s Taiwan Affairs Office has confirmed that the General Administration of Civil Aviation of China has approved up to 36 additional direct cross-Strait frequencies, to be operated by Taiwan airlines. An additional nine frequencies are awaiting approval.

The newly approved frequencies comprise 14 services to Shanghai Hongqiao, four to both Beijing and Shenzhen, 11 combined to Xiamen and Fuzhou, two to Qingdao and one to Changsha. The nine frequencies awaiting approval include services to Xiamen, Guangzhou and Hangzhou.

Taiwan International Securities said investors expect that both sides will soon agree a plan to allow direct cargo flights across the Taiwan Strait.