Xiamen  Airlines has appointed its first General Sales & Service Agent (GSSA) in India.

 The airline, which is based in southeast China's Fujian province, will now use Aviareps as its representative in India. The GSSA, which has an office in Mumbai, will be responsible for "maximising exposure, penetrating new markets and promoting Xiamen Airlines as a favourable airline for Indian travellers".

 "We are looking forward to foray into this new and emerging market with extensive outbound travel potential," said Hu Bin, Xiamen Airline' general manager of passenger marketing & sales. "For Xiamen Airlines, this is a strategic, long-term investment. By collaborating with Aviareps India, a professional airline GSSA with extensive knowledge of the Indian market and the aviation industry, we are sure to reach our goals."

 Xiamen Airlines doesn't currently fly to India, but it is in the process of undertaking a major international expansion plan. Having recently welcomed its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, the carrier is planning to fly to the U.S. and Europe. It is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance.

 "India is currently witnessing a massive boost in both business and leisure traffic to China. Given the agent friendly policies of the airline... and strong network level of service that Xiamen Airlines offers, we expect a very positive response for Xiamen Airlines from the Indian market," said Joseph Fernandes, Aviareps' general manager for India.