Europe-China flight numbers still down over 50 per cent on pre-pandemic levels

As the novel coronavirus pandemic continues to reverberate through the global economy, its effects can clearly be seen in the drastic drop in the number of flights between Europe and China. In the face of incredible uncertainty, air travel between the two regions saw more than 50 per cent fewer flights than before the pandemic began. Despite the difficulties this imposes, both regions are striving to make the safest, most efficient use of the few opportunities that remain.

1. Global Disruption: A Continuing Impact on Flight Numbers

The effects of global disruption are still apparent when it comes to flight numbers. Governments have put travel restrictions in place that vary from country to country, leading to:

• The deterring of tourists from flying either inwards or outwards from their choice of destinations.
• The closing down of airports, which restricts air transport within and out of a country.
• The limiting or halting of international or intercontinental flights.

Apart from this, with projects being delayed or cancelled, interest in taking flights has been hindered due to increased economic uncertainty. Airlines are adapting to the situation with reduced flight schedules and reduced availability in order to survive the turbulence, with several of them being in a desperate situation.

2. Daunting Reality: Europe-China Flight Numbers Remain Low

As fear of continued transmission of the coronavirus remains, the number of flights between Europe and China is lower than ever. Though governments on both sides have opened the border to allow travel, the issued regulations are scaring away most potential travelers.

• Long Distance: A majority of people who wish to fly from Europe to China must take a direct flight from EU countries such as France, Ireland, Germany, etc. to a Chinese city. This does not seem to be an attractive option for those who wish to avoid a lengthy journey.
• Risk Aversion: Many people have evaluated the risks of taking a plane and determined that the potential exposure to the virus is far greater than the benefits of traveling.

Not only do travelers have to weigh the risks of coming into contact with the virus, but they must also consider the added regulations. After landing in the country of their destination, those who have flown in must spend 14 days in quarantine in a government approved location. This is another discourager that is preventing people from coming and going between Europe and China.

Given the current situation, it seems unlikely that the flight numbers between Europe and China will see any significant increase in the near future.

3. Seeking Contrast: Pre-Pandemic and Post-Pandemic Flights Levels Uncover Sharp Decline

The COVID-19 pandemic has left the global aviation industry at a standstill. At the peak of the crisis, global air travel had dropped by nearly 90%. The drop in air traffic is unprecedented, as airports and airlines alike struggle to adjust to new protocols and safety measures.

One of the most visible impacts of the pandemic has been the sharp decline in passenger numbers. According to statistics, global pre-pandemic flight levels are a stark contrast to their post-pandemic counterparts.

• Pre-Pandemic: Before the pandemic, planes were regularly taking off from airports across the world, with flights often reaching 95% capacity.
• Post-Pandemic: Post-pandemic, many airlines have reduced their flight schedules, turning flights which were once full to flights that are often only one-third to one-quarter full, or even empty.

The drastic drop in flight levels is not expected to change anytime soon. This means that for the foreseeable future, air passenger numbers will continue to remain low, with airlines struggling to sustain their services as the global crisis persists.

4. Moving Forward: Identifying Ways to Reverse the Situation

With awareness around the situation increasing, now’s the time to identify ways to reverse it. Such methods can be broad and varied, but they can be categorized into two main types. These are:

1. Long-term solutions: Improve the current environment and circumstances, making the situation more manageable in the long-term. Examples could include:

• Promoting better education around the topic
• Limiting access to certain resources
• Encouraging more sustainable practices

2. Short-term solutions: Act now to alleviate the situation, providing fast and immediate results. Examples could include:

• Engaging the media to raise awareness
• Implementing local and national legislation
• Offering financial incentives or rewards

Having identified which type of solution is most effective in this case, it’s important to set up action plans that are achievable and measurable. With the right steps in place, and a considered approach, it’s possible to make a positive difference and move forward with reversing the situation.

Despite the best efforts of both Europe and China to return air travel to pre-pandemic numbers, it appears this may not yet be possible. The current 50% drop in flight numbers between the two continents serves as a reminder of just how far away a post-pandemic world may still be. For now, Europe-China travel continues to remain a difficult challenge that needs to be addressed to move a society firmly out of this pandemic.