U.S. airlines are not expecting a rapid return of China and Japan to their travel demand.
By David Shepardson
WASHINGTON, (Reuters) – A group representing major U.S. carriers said Tuesday that it does not expect a significant return in international passenger air travel demand from China and Japan before March 31, and requested an extension of a waiver for some COVID-19 international route requirements.
Airlines for America, a trade association representing major U.S. airlines, informed the U.S. Transportation Department that they “do not foresee significant, certain international passenger growth in either China, or Japan before” the expiration a USDOT waiver.
The group increased ticket sales for the U.S. China markets as of December but they were 88% below 2019 levels. Passenger demand for both markets remains “severely down.”
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, several waivers have been granted to airlines.
The group stated that international air travel to China remains very low due to complicated, uncertain travel requirements and entry barriers.
According to the group, new requirements were set for travelers in regards to testing.
China to the United States. The United States has implemented revised visa and travel requirements for China entry, as well as the temporary refusal of tourists visas.
Beginning Jan. 5, 2016, the United States made mandatory COVID-19 screenings for all travelers from China.
According to the airlines, entry restrictions for nationalities “suppresses demand and stops our members being able operate their limited-entry frequencies.” According to the group travel to Tokyo Haneda remains extremely depressed.
The group stated that Japan is opening up to international travel, and the U.S.-Tokyo market is improving. However, the pace of the rebound was slow and forward-looking demand is still choppy.”
It said that passenger volumes in the U.S.-Tokyo were just 19% for 2022, while the international average for the same period was 56%.
Delta Air Lines announced Friday that it plans to “rebuild China’s capacities in accordance with demand” starting later in the year.
(Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by Marguerita Chuy)