Airlines Respond to the Coronavirus Outbreak
As the coronavirus outbreak spreads rapidly around the world, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency. As concerns arise regarding the potential for air travel to further disseminate the virus, many airlines are consequently adjusting their operations.
In response to the ongoing health crisis, several airlines have already cancelled all flights to and from mainland China. Following the UK government’s travel warning, British Airways has decided to cancel all flights to and from Beijing and Shanghai until at least 29 February, allowing time to assess the situation. Meanwhile, KLM has announced the suspension of all flights to these cities until 9 February, basing its decision on existing recommendations from international health authorities. American Airlines also announced a halt to its services to mainland China until 27 March following the US State Department’s travel warning.
As of 30 January, numerous airlines have opted to reduce their services to China instead. For instance, United Airlines has temporarily decreased the frequency of its flights to Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
Despite some flights continuing to operate, many airlines are now offering travelers waiver options to amend their travel plans due to the virus outbreak.
Airlines based in the region are also enhancing their in-flight services to decrease the risk of viral transmission. For example, Cathay Pacific, the flag carrier of Hong Kong, announced on 29 January that it would implement temporary measures to bolster health and safety protocols. Passengers on flights to and from mainland destinations will find amenities such as hot towels, pillows, blankets, and magazines unavailable, and duty-free shopping has been suspended. Additionally, in first and business class, trolley services have also been temporarily halted.
Hong Kong Airlines has similarly announced that as of 31 January, amenities such as duvets, pillows, and mixed nuts will not be offered to business class passengers on regional flights, while economy class travelers will not receive blankets or pillows, and the tea and coffee service will be suspended.
As airlines and airports worldwide continue to adapt their strategies in light of the coronavirus outbreak, it is vital for travelers to remain informed by checking updates from their respective airlines prior to traveling.
