The new arrangement takes effect from 2 January 2020 and will allow the two airlines to cooperate on scheduling and pricing, giving passengers more flight and fare options.

BA chairman and chief executive Alex Cruz said the joint business will initially see the two airlines code-sharing on all direct flights operated on mainland routes between London and the Chinese cities of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Sanya, Wuhan and Zhengzhou

He added BA customers will be able to travel more easily on a combined route network that will develop over time thanks to both airlines’ move to the new Beijing Daxing International airport.

Cruz said: “We are delighted to announce this joint business which will bring the UK and China closer together by providing British Airways and China Southern Airlines customers with a wide range of benefits.

“The agreement reinforces our commitment to boost tourism and business travel between the two countries and we look forward to strengthening the relationship further.”