After more than three years since the global Covid-19 crisis began, the US and China are finally increasing the number of direct flights between the two countries. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) announced on August 11 that Chinese carriers could increase the total number of weekly round-trip flights to the USA to 18, starting September 1. This number will further rise to 24 on October 29. Airlines like Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, and Hainan Airlines are covered under this order.
The DOT expressed its goal to create an environment where both US and Chinese air carriers can fully exercise their rights, maintaining a competitive balance and fair opportunity. This move comes after flights were severely reduced since June 2020 due to the Chinese government’s actions, which the US government objected to.
Gradual Increase in Flights
Since the initial reduction, there has been a gradual increase in flights between the two countries as coronavirus-driven travel restrictions have eased. The number of flights most recently increased to 12 weekly round trips for each country’s carriers in May.
United Airlines quickly responded to the DOT’s decision, announcing its plans to expand its schedule to China. This led to the belief that the Chinese government will reciprocate for US airlines. United plans to resume daily flights to Beijing from San Francisco starting in November and will increase flight frequency to Shanghai beginning on October 1.
Patrick Quayle, United’s senior vice-president of global network planning and alliances, expressed gratitude for this positive step in US-China passenger air services. He stated, “We are grateful for this positive step forward in US-China passenger air services, and we thank the many officials from both countries who partnered to make this reinstatement of air service possible.” He also added that daily flights to Beijing and Shanghai from San Francisco align with the current market demand.
However, United also mentioned that reaching China from its East Coast hubs remains “severely limited” due to overflight restrictions in Russian airspace. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, which also operated numerous weekly flights to China before the pandemic, have not commented on the order.
Looking Ahead
This agreement between the US and China is a significant move towards restoring normalcy in international travel. It’s a reflection of the easing of travel restrictions and a growing confidence in the ability to manage travel during the ongoing pandemic.
For travelers, businesses, and airlines, this means more options and flexibility. It’s a step that not only fosters economic growth but also strengthens the relationship between two of the world’s major powers.
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