Chinese carriers allowed to operate more flights to US
The number of passenger flights allowed to be operated by Chinese airlines between China and the United States is set to increase from next month, in the latest step taken to boost direct flight connectivity between the two countries.
The US Department of Transportation said on Monday that from March 31, Chinese carriers could operate a total of 50 round-trip passenger flights a week, up from the current 35.
The move "is a significant step forward in further normalization of the US-China market in anticipation of the Summer 2024 traffic season", the department said in a statement.
The increase comes months after President Xi Jinping met with US President Joe Biden in San Francisco in November last year.
During the meeting, the leaders agreed to strengthen bilateral dialogue and cooperation in various fields, including significantly increasing flights between the two countries.
China and the US have been working to increase the number of passenger flights between the two countries, after it fell sharply following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In May 2023, the US Department of Transportation allowed Chinese carriers to operate 12 round-trip passenger flights per week. The number was then increased several times, till it reached 35 in November.
The latest increase to 50 will bring the market to nearly one-third of pre-pandemic levels, according to Reuters, which said more than 150 weekly round-trip passenger flights were allowed by each side before the pandemic hit.
China has called for joint efforts with the US to support and encourage people-to-people exchanges.
It has also taken a series of measures to attract foreign travelers, including those from the US, over the past months.
Last month, the Chinese embassy and consulates-general in the US simplified the documents which applicants for a tourist visa are required to submit.
Related articles
Kate Hudson hits the stage to debut songs from her new album Glorious at star
Kate Hudson looked like a pro as she performed songs from her new album Glorious for the first time.2024-05-21China sees stronger momentum for scientific and technological innovation over past five years
China has improved its innovation system and environment and greatly enhanced its innovation ability2024-05-21China launches new mobile telecommunication satellite
A Long March-3B carrier rocket carrying the Tiantong 1-03 satellite blasts off from the Xichang Sate2024-05-21China steps up development of intelligent vehicles
China is stepping up the push to bolster the development of intelligent connected vehicles and encou2024-05-21Rangers are undefeated at .500 to keep World Series champs from a losing record with Bochy
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The reigning World Series champion Texas Rangers are undefeated this season2024-05-21China renews blue alerts for severe convection weather, sandstorms
China's meteorological authority on Sunday renewed a blue alert for severe convection weather, f2024-05-21
atest comment