China-US flights set to increase

Although there was a significant reduction in flights during the pandemic, there is now encouraging news regarding the revival of transpacific air travel

Beginning on September 1st, Chinese authorities have granted approval for airlines from both countries to collectively operate 18 weekly round trip flights connecting China and the US. This marks an increase from the current allowance of 12 weekly round trips. Furthermore, as of October 29th, this number will further rise to 24 weekly round trips.

Key takeaways

• However, it's important to note that this still falls short in comparison to the pre-pandemic levels, during which Chinese and US airlines jointly operated 150 weekly round trips.
• Presently, United Airlines stands as the sole US carrier providing regular service to China, running four weekly flights between its hub in San Francisco and Shanghai's Pudong International Airport.
• United Airlines has announced plans to elevate its Shanghai flights to a daily frequency starting October 1st. Concurrently, this Star Alliance member has disclosed intentions to resume daily flights between Beijing and San Francisco, effective November 1st, coinciding with the implementation of the new cap of 24 weekly flights."

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