The US will let Chinese airlines increase US passenger services to 12 weekly round-trips, which is equal to the number of flights Beijing has permitted for US carriers.
This is a significant boost from the eight weekly round-trip flights that are currently allowed by Chinese carriers and matches what Beijing has permitted for the US. However, a small chunk of over 150 round-trip flights allowed by each side before retractions were imposed in early 2020 due to the global pandemic, as reported by Reuters.
The Goal
According to the USDOT, their goal was a gradual, broader reopening of the US-China air services market.
This move aims to increase travel and trade between the two countries, which have been strained due to tensions over trade and the COVID-19 pandemic. Allowing more flights could also provide relief for airlines struggling financially due to the pandemic.
This decision comes after months of negotiations between the two countries, and it is seen as a positive step towards improving relations. However, it is still unclear when the additional flights will begin, as travel restrictions remain in place due to the pandemic.
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A Significant Development to International Trade and Travel
The decision to gradually reopen the US-China air services market is a significant development in international trade and travel. The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted both countries' economies, and this move could provide some much-needed relief for airlines struggling financially.
Increased flights between the two nations will not only benefit businesses but also facilitate cultural exchanges among people from different backgrounds. It can foster greater understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect between the two nations.
However, it should be noted that safety measures must be put in place to ensure passengers are protected against COVID-19 infection during their travels. Both governments need to work together closely on implementing strict health protocols at all airports involved in these flights.
Reopening air travel between China and the United States is an important step towards rebuilding relations after years of tensions over trade issues.
As restrictions ease up worldwide with vaccination rates increasing globally; more frequent exchange visits may help bridge gaps created by previous uncertainties experienced due to geopolitical events like Brexit or other challenges related primarily to disease control measures implemented as part of public health responses across borders throughout 2020/21.
It could also signal a positive shift in US-China relations, which have been strained due to various issues such as human rights violations, cybersecurity concerns, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Increased air travel could provide opportunities for both countries to work together on these issues and find common ground for cooperation.
In conclusion, the reopening of the US-China air services market is a positive development that could benefit both countries and promote greater understanding and cooperation. However, safety measures must be prioritized to ensure that passengers are protected against COVID-19 infection, and both governments must work together closely to implement strict health protocols at all airports involved in these flights.
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