China: Flight disruptions occurring nationwide March 22 following China Eastern (MU) plane crash

Event

Reports indicate flight disruptions across China March 22 due to the cancellation of around 74 percent of approximately 11,800 daily flights, mainly between Beijing and Shanghai. Officials did not state the reason for the cancellations, though they followed the crash of China Eastern (MU) flight 5735 the previous day. It is not immediately clear when normal flight operations would resume nationwide.

Additional flight delays and cancellations are possible at airports across China in the coming days. Customer service and check-in desks at airports may also experience extended queues.

Advice

Confirm all flights. Do not check out of accommodations until verifying onward travel. Consider alternative transportation options. Allow considerable extra time to clear check-in and security procedures at airports.