[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Kim Hyunjung] Chinese state media pointed out the supply shortage issue as airfares between Korea and Beijing have surged sharply.
On the 8th, China’s state-run CCTV reported that after China’s 'optimization of quarantine measures,' travel demand has surged, causing a severe shortage of air tickets between Incheon International Airport in Korea and China. CCTV stated, "Direct flights to China by major airlines are almost sold out, and fares from Incheon to Beijing have soared to around 10,000 yuan (approximately 1.83 million KRW)," adding, "This price is several times higher than last year." In fact, on the Chinese travel site Ctrip, airfare for Incheon-Beijing this month is listed at over 7,000 to 10,000 yuan, and most tickets are sold out and unavailable.
CCTV pointed out, "Korea’s domestic tourism market is relatively small, and industries such as airlines, duty-free shops, and hotels heavily depend on international tourists," adding, "During the spread of the infectious disease (COVID-19), international exchanges were blocked, causing significant damage." It further evaluated, "However, with the optimization and adjustment of China’s entry and exit policies, these industries have finally reached a turning point."
On the 8th, the first day after China abolished facility quarantine following the end of the zero-COVID policy, there were a total of six flights from Incheon International Airport to mainland China. CCTV reported, "Due to China’s optimized quarantine measures, air travel demand has surged, and supply is insufficient, causing a shortage of air tickets," and covered how Korean airlines are responding.
The media explained, "Korean Air has recently rehired employees for the first time in over three years to gradually restore personnel in departments such as maintenance to pre-COVID-19 levels and is preparing to increase cabin crew by at least 100," adding, "Many low-cost carriers had 70% of their revenue from China-centered international routes, so if China routes resume, a return to profitability can be expected."
Meanwhile, following China’s easing of quarantine measures, countries concerned about the spread of COVID-19 variants have strengthened quarantine for arrivals from China. Korean airlines have also postponed their previous plans to resume routes or increase flights with various Chinese cities.
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