Singapore: Singapore Airlines and SilkAir reduce flights March-May 2020

Event

Singapore Airlines announced on Tuesday, February 18, that it will temporarily reduce service to multiple countries between March and May 2020 due to the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. According to a statement from the airline, demand for flights across the Singapore Airlines and SilkAir network have decreased. Over 100 flights to various locations, including Japan, South Korea, Germany, the US, and the UK have been canceled and further adjustments may occur over the coming days and weeks. Affected customers will be notified and re-accommodated onto other flights. Further information can be found on the Singapore Airlines website here.

Context

The first case of COVID-19 was reported on December 31 and the source of the outbreak has been linked to a wet market in Wuhan (China). Human-to-human and patient-to-medical staff transmission of the virus have been confirmed. Many of the associated fatalities have been due to pneumonia caused by the virus.

Cases of the virus have been confirmed in 29 countries and territories worldwide. Virus screening and quarantining measures are being implemented at airports worldwide, as well as extensive travel restrictions. On February 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the COVID-19 outbreak is a "very grave threat."

Advice

Potentially impacted travelers are advised to confirm flight reservations and to contact the airline for additional information.