CNN: Chinese airlines cancel flights as fuel prices rise

China’s several state-owned airlines have begun mass cancellations of international flights ahead of one of the country’s busiest travel seasons, as global aviation fuel prices rise sharply.

Passengers said the cancellations have mainly affected routes to Southeast Asia and Australia, Caliber.Az reports, citing CNN.

In particular, users reported disruptions involving China Eastern Airlines and Sichuan Airlines, causing significant inconvenience for travelers.

Some passengers said they were informed of cancellations weeks before departure, while others received notice at the last minute, disrupting work and study plans.

The airlines have confirmed the cancellations, describing them as “policy adjustments,” though they have not provided detailed explanations.

The situation comes ahead of China’s “Golden Week” holiday period, a five-day break in May during which domestic and international travel typically surges rapidly.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov