China airline passenger numbers fall 84.5% amid virus outbreak

737-800 Shenzen Airlines

Chinese airline passenger numbers slumped by 84.5% last month, highlighting the huge economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak.

China’s aviation regulator said on Thursday that the drop has caused a 21 billion yuan (£2.35 billion) fall in revenue.

Earlier this week the Chinese government announced fresh measures to support its struggling carriers.

The global airline industry is facing a massive downturn in passenger numbers due to travel restrictions.

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) said it will provide subsidies to Chinese airlines and give additional funding for international flights.

Take-off and landing charges are also being reduced to help carriers cut costs during the downturn, while airport infrastructure spending will be increased by 100 billion yuan during 2020.