London | London-based Australian podiatrist Vishaan Solanki, 30, was trying to get back to Melbourne for a family wedding. Looking for a cheap option, he did what many other bargain-hunting Aussies in Britain now do: he booked with a Chinese airline.

The layovers in Beijing, Shanghai or Guangzhou can be very long, but the price is compelling. Flights with China Eastern this November are on offer for less than £700 ($1360) return – at least £300 cheaper than almost any other airline.