BEIJING, Dec. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing recently announced a 72-hour visa-free stay for citizens from 45 countries who have outbound air tickets and visas to a third country, starting January 1, 2013. This policy will promote Beijing's regional economy, tourism and civil aviation industry. In response to the new policy, Air China is offering more products and services that meet the needs of the transfer passengers and ensure utmost convenience to travelers going to and from Beijing.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20080625/CNW017LOGO )

With its extensive route network, Air China is the best choice for passengers transferring in Beijing

This 72-hour visa-free policy applies to citizens of 45 countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Brazil, Japan, South Korea and Singapore. Travelers do not have to apply for a visa and can take a brief tour of Beijing. Air China boasts an extensive global route network with Beijing as its hub, serving 30 countries and regions. Taking advantage of the Star Alliance network, Air China can fly passengers to 1356 destinations in 193 countries around the world. Additionally, Air China opens China up to the rest of the world.

Air China will cement its foothold in Beijing and offer seamless connections to visa-free travelers.

The 72-hour visa-free stay policy will increase transfer passenger numbers in Beijing. Air China will schedule its flights according to passengers' needs, ensuring seamless connections for transit and visa-free travelers. Meanwhile, Air China will work with local travel operators to introduce one to three day tours, taking travelers on a discovery of the beauty of China and giving them unique experiences.

Helpful Tips: List of the 45 countries that qualify for the 72-hour visa-free stay policy (The following information is for reference only. All related information released by the Beijing municipal government is deemed final. For more information, please visit the official website of Beijing Tourism Administration: http://english.visitbeijing.com.cn/play/entertainment/beijingtooffer72-hourvisa/index.shtml

The United States, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Russia, Greece, Brazil, Australia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Brunei, Qatar.

SOURCE Air China