对俄免签首日，湖北迎来首批享受免签入境俄旅客

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of a visa-free policy for Russian passport holders by China is expected to enhance bilateral trade and tourism, with the first flight arriving in Wuhan on September 15, 2023, carrying 126 Russian passengers who benefited from this new policy [1][4]. Group 1: Visa-Free Policy Implementation - The visa-free policy for Russian passport holders allows entry into China for business, tourism, family visits, and transit for up to 30 days without a visa [4]. - The policy is part of a broader initiative to expand the list of countries eligible for visa-free entry, effective from September 15, 2025, to September 14, 2026 [4]. Group 2: Flight Operations - The direct flight route between Wuhan and Moscow has resumed after a five-year hiatus, with flights operated by an Airbus A350-900, scheduled twice a week [4]. - The flight CZ8004 departs Wuhan at 15:10 Beijing time and arrives in Moscow at 19:15 local time, with a return flight leaving Moscow at 21:15 local time and arriving back in Wuhan at 10:30 the next day [4]. Group 3: Increased Passenger Flow - Wuhan Tianhe International Airport has seen a significant increase in inbound and outbound passenger traffic, surpassing one million travelers this year, making it the first inland port in Central China to reach this milestone [5]. - As of September 15, 2023, approximately 81,000 foreign travelers from over 170 countries have entered through Tianhe Airport, with 43,000 benefiting from the visa-free policy, marking a nearly threefold increase year-on-year [5]. Group 4: Border Control Enhancements - The Wuhan border inspection station has implemented measures to improve the passenger experience, including a real-time flow display system to optimize personnel deployment and inspection channels [5]. - A multilingual volunteer service team has been established to assist foreign travelers with policy inquiries and provide support, enhancing the convenience for foreign visitors to China [5].