Global Airlines Cut Routes to China Amid High Costs, Slowed Demand

Global airlines are scaling back services to China, with some halting routes entirely as operational costs rise due to closed Russian airspace and demand remains sluggish. Virgin Atlantic and Scandinavian Airlines are among the carriers withdrawing completely, with Virgin ceasing flights to Hong Kong in 2022 after a 30-year run, according to company announcements.

A recent report from travel news site Skift highlights that seven major airlines have reduced their presence in China over the last four months. Industry experts like John Grant, chief analyst at OAG, predict this trend will likely continue. “The situation is going to get more pronounced before it improves,” he noted.

Airlines scaling back include Qantas, which has suspended its Sydney-Shanghai route, and Lufthansa, which has removed nonstop flights between Frankfurt and Beijing from its schedule. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) plans to halt Copenhagen-Shanghai flights by November 8, while British Airways has paused London-Beijing services until at least late 2025, halving its Heathrow-Hong Kong operations. Other carriers, such as LOT Polish and Finnair, are also reducing or suspending Beijing and Shanghai routes for the winter season.

British Airways has additionally downgraded aircraft size on China-bound flights, moving from Boeing 747s to smaller Boeing 777s and Boeing 787s, to minimize costs while maintaining service on key routes. This strategic shift reflects airlines’ cautious approach to serving China as they navigate high operating expenses and fluctuating demand in the current global travel landscape.

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