British Airways has made the call to suspended all flights to and from China following advice from the Foreign Office against all but essential travel to the country in light of coronavirus. Refunds are available.
The carrier has released a statement on its website explaining it has “temporarily suspended flights to and from Beijing and Shanghai with immediate effect, until Friday 31 January, while we assess the situation”.
British Airways apologised to customers for the inconvenience but said the safety of their customers and crew was always their priority.
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“We fully understand that you may want to change your travel plans as a result of the recent coronavirus outbreak in China, and so whilst we await further advice from the Government and health organisations, we are offering any customers due to fly to or from China including Hong Kong until February 23 the option to refund or rebook.”
British Airways
If you have clients that were planning to travel to China on British Airways, the carrier is advising you contact them to discuss options to be rebooked onto other carriers, where possible.
Those flying to China between 31 January and 23 February 2020, are invited to rebook on to another flight operated by British Airways to the same destination.
Those travelling between the dates listed above also have the option to request a full refund. This also includes any redemption bookings.
You can see more details from British Airways here.
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Other carrier’s including ANA, Russia Airlines and Singapore Airlines, have also offered to waive fees for rescheduling flights to China.