Chinese aviation regulator published a fall in number of passengers in February to 84.5% amid the coronavirus outbreak that is crippling the Chinese economy.
The virus that seems unstoppable has spread over the world and WHO has declared it “pandemic”. COVID-19 has had huge impact on various industries, however aviation sector is one of the hardest hit so far.
The origin of the virus is in China, therefore Chinese airlines are the most affected airlines with this outbreak. China’s aviation regulator said on Thursday that the drop in number of passengers has caused a 21bn yuan (2.67bn €) fall in revenue. Earlier this week the Chinese government announced fresh measures to support its struggling carriers. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said it will provide subsidies to Chinese airlines and give additional funding for international flights.
China’s biggest airlines include China Southern, China Eastern, Air China and Hainan Airlines. China is reportedly planning to take control of Hainan’s parent company, HNA Group, and sell off its airline assets.
Most international carriers have cancelled services to mainland China with several pushing these suspensions into April.
