China shortens suspensions for international flights linked to Covid-19 cases

BEIJING (REUTERS, BLOOMBERG) - China has shortened the suspension time for inbound international flights on routes found to have Covid-19 cases starting from Sunday (Aug 7), in the latest sign that the nation may be ready to ease virus-control measures for international travellers. 

The country's aviation regulator said in a statement on Sunday that flights on a route with an identified coronavirus case will be suspended for one week if 4 per cent of passengers test positive, and two weeks if 8 per cent of passengers test positive.

Previously, the aviation regulator's policy was that if five passengers tested positive, the airline's flights for that route would be suspended for two weeks. The suspension will last for four weeks if 10 or more passengers test positive.

The change is aimed at promoting personnel exchanges between China and foreign countries, and foreign exchange and cooperation, while “scientifically and accurately” achieving epidemic prevention and control, the statement said. 

In June, China reduced quarantine times for inbound travelers by half, its biggest shift in a Covid-19 policy that has left the world’s second-largest economy isolated as it continues to try and eliminate the virus. 

Hong Kong suspended a similar flight-ban system last month, raising hopes the financial hub will lift travel curbs.