China's domestic air traffic falls 5.7% over Labor Day holiday
Updated
Updated · Yicai Global · May 7
China's domestic air traffic falls 5.7% over Labor Day holiday
8 articles · Updated · Yicai Global · May 7
Transport ministry data showed average daily air passenger journeys at 2.1 million from May 1 to 5, while rail and road travel rose to 21.3 million and 278 million.
Analysts linked the drop to higher jet fuel costs tied to Middle East tensions, newly staggered school spring breaks and travellers switching to high-speed rail as fares climbed.
Daily flights averaged 15,700, down 2.6%, with 31 of 41 major airports handling fewer flights; meanwhile, international bookings increased and post-holiday domestic ticket prices fell, adding pressure on airlines.
As more Chinese travel than ever, why did the nation's airline industry just have its worst holiday in years?
As Middle East conflict grounds Chinese travelers, is high-speed rail the nation's new economic backbone?