China Allows More Foreign Airlines after the U.S. Bans Chinese Passenger Flights

China on Thursday said that it would ease international flight restrictions, about 12 hours after Trump administration threatened to ban Chinese passenger flights in retaliation for Beijing’s refusal to allow American airlines resuming service.

 

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) will allow more international flights to fly into Mainland China. Foreign airlines which were previously prohibited will be able to operate with a limitation of only one flight a week to a Chinese destination of their choosing, beginning June 8.

 

If a flight’s passengers test negative for the Covid-19 for three consecutive weeks, the airline will be able to add one additional fight per week, the aviation authority said. If five or more passengers test positive for the virus, the airline must suspend the flight for a week, according to the statement.