The aviation industry across Asia faced significant disruptions this weekend as adverse weather conditions forced major carriers, including Air China, China Eastern, and Hainan Airlines, to cancel a large number of flights. A total of over 60 flights were affected by the weather, stranding passengers and causing chaos at key airports across China. The flight cancellations were a result of severe weather patterns, including heavy rains, snowstorms, and low visibility, which prompted airlines to prioritize safety.
While these cancellations impacted multiple cities and airports, the greatest disruption was seen in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Shenzhen, and Xi’an. Passengers endured long delays and were left scrambling for alternative transportation options, as flights were grounded and airports were forced to manage unexpected surges in passenger traffic.
A Breakdown of the Cancellations Across Three Major Airlines
In an effort to analyze the scale and impact of these cancellations, we dive into the flight data provided by Air China, China Eastern, and Hainan Airlines. Below is a detailed look at the affected flights, the airlines involved, and the key airports that bore the brunt of the disruptions.
Table of Canceled Flights by Air China
Ident
Type
Origin
Destination
Scheduled Departure Time
CCA1807
B738
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Fuzhou Changle Int’l (FOC / ZSFZ)
Sat 06:25PM CST
CCA4510
A319
Shanghai Pudong Int’l (PVG / ZSPD)
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Sat 06:45PM CST
CCA1735
A320
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Sat 07:10PM CST
CCA1398
B789
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 07:10PM CST
CCA2969
B738
Tianjin Binhai Int’l (TSN / ZBTJ)
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Sat 07:40PM CST
CCA4583
A321
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Ningbo Lishe Int’l (NGB / ZSNB)
Sat 07:45PM CST
CCA1492
B738
Zunyi Maotai Airport (WMT / ZUMT)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 08:00PM CST
CCA4598
A321
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Sat 08:15PM CST
CCA8615
B738
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX / ZBAD)
Daqing Sartu (DQA / ZYDQ)
Sat 08:25PM CST
CCA1730
A321
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Sat 08:45PM CST
CCA1845
B737
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Hefei Xinqiao Airport (HFE / ZSOF)
Sat 08:45PM CST
CCA1573
A321
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Wenzhou Int’l (WNZ / ZSWZ)
Sat 09:15PM CST
CCA1736
A320
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Sat 10:30PM CST
CCA4584
A321
Ningbo Lishe Int’l (NGB / ZSNB)
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Sat 11:00PM CST
CCA8616
B738
Daqing Sartu (DQA / ZYDQ)
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX / ZBAD)
Sat 11:05PM CST
CCA1841
A320
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Yangzhou Taizhou (YTY / ZSYA)
Sun 06:55AM CST
CCA8390
A320
Wenzhou Int’l (WNZ / ZSWZ)
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX / ZBAD)
Sun 07:25AM CST
CCA8397
B738
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX / ZBAD)
Nanchang Changbei Int’l (KHN / ZSCN)
Sun 07:35AM CST
CCA8361
B738
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX / ZBAD)
Quzhou (JUZ / ZSJU)
Sun 08:20AM CST
CCA2970
B738
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Tianjin Binhai Int’l (TSN / ZBTJ)
Sun 08:30AM CST
Table of Canceled Flights by China Eastern
Ident
Type
Origin
Destination
Scheduled Departure Time
CES2548
B735
Jinzhou (JNZ / ZYJZ)
Shanghai Pudong Int’l (PVG / ZSPD)
Sat 05:50PM CST
CES5363
A321
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Sat 06:30PM CST
CES5581
A320
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Dashuipo (WEH / ZSWH)
Sat 06:35PM CST
CES2914
A20N
Xiamen Gaoqi Int’l (XMN / ZSAM)
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Sat 06:40PM CST
CES2744
A319
Yinchuan Helanshan (INC / ZLIC)
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Sat 06:50PM CST
CES6914
A320
Shenyang Taoxian Int’l (SHE / ZYTX)
Hefei Xinqiao Airport (HFE / ZSOF)
Sat 07:10PM CST
CES6964
A320
Lanzhou Zhongchuan International (LHW / ZLLL)
Hefei Xinqiao Airport (HFE / ZSOF)
Sat 07:10PM CST
CES2820
A320
Xiamen Gaoqi Int’l (XMN / ZSAM)
Changzhou Benniu (CZX / ZSCG)
Sat 07:15PM CST
CES9030
C09
Dongsheng (DSN / ZBDS)
Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW / ZBSJ)
Sat 07:20PM CST
CES6178
A320
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Sat 07:40PM CST
CES6197
A320
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Ningbo Lishe Int’l (NGB / ZSNB)
Sat 08:00PM CST
CES2825
A320
Wuxi (WUX / ZSWX)
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Sat 09:00PM CST
CES5582
A320
Dashuipo (WEH / ZSWH)
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Sat 09:00PM CST
CES5447
A321
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Chengdu Shuangliu Int’l (CTU / ZUUU)
Sat 09:20PM CST
CES5364
A321
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Sat 09:30PM CST
CES9030
C09
Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW / ZBSJ)
Shanghai Pudong Int’l (PVG / ZSPD)
Sat 09:40PM CST
CES869
A320
Hangzhou Xiaoshan Int’l (HGH / ZSHC)
Tan Son Nhat Int’l (SGN / VVTS)
Sat 10:00PM CST
CES6198
A320
Ningbo Lishe Int’l (NGB / ZSNB)
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Sun 07:55AM CST
CES2925
A320
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Chongqing Jiangbei Int’l (CKG / ZUCK)
Sun 08:05AM CST
CES2501
B735
Wuhan Tianhe (WUH / ZHHH)
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Sun 08:40AM CST
Table of Canceled Flights by Hainan Airlines
Ident
Type
Origin
Destination
Scheduled Departure Time
CHH7376
B738
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Sat 05:40PM CST
CHH7607
B789
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Sat 05:40PM CST
CHH7435
B738
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Sat 06:10PM CST
CHH7204
B738
Shenyang Taoxian Int’l (SHE / ZYTX)
Hefei Xinqiao Airport (HFE / ZSOF)
Sat 07:35PM CST
CHH7713
B789
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Sat 07:40PM CST
CHH7570
B738
Shenyang Taoxian Int’l (SHE / ZYTX)
Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)
Sat 07:45PM CST
CHH7834
B738
Taiyuan Wusu (TYN / ZBYN)
Urumqi Diwopu Int’l (URC / ZWWW)
Sat 08:15PM CST
CHH7822
B738
Jinan Yaoqiang (TNA / ZSJN)
Urumqi Diwopu Int’l (URC / ZWWW)
Sat 08:15PM CST
CHH7876
B738
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Xi’an Xianyang Int’l (XIY / ZLXY)
Sat 08:30PM CST
CHH7231
B738
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Shanghai Pudong Int’l (PVG / ZSPD)
Sat 08:50PM CST
CHH7214
B738
Nanjing Lukou Int’l (NKG / ZSNJ)
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Sat 09:00PM CST
CHH7610
B789
Shanghai Hongqiao Int’l (SHA / ZSSS)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 09:05PM CST
CHH7375
B738
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Chengdu Tianfu Int’l (TFU / ZUTF)
Sat 09:15PM CST
CHH7716
A332
Shenzhen Bao’an Int’l (SZX / ZGSZ)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 09:20PM CST
CHH7686
B738
Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW / ZBSJ)
Dalian Zhoushuizi Int’l (DLC / ZYTL)
Sat 09:45PM CST
CHH7536
B738
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 09:55PM CST
CHH7217
B738
Haikou Meilan Int’l (HAK / ZJHK)
Changsha Huanghua Int’l (CSX / ZGHA)
Sat 10:15PM CST
CHH7129
B738
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Harbin Taiping Int’l (HRB / ZYHB)
Sat 10:40PM CST
CHH7204
B738
Hefei Xinqiao Airport (HFE / ZSOF)
Guangzhou Baiyun Int’l (CAN / ZGGG)
Sat 11:05PM CST
CHH7130
B738
Harbin Taiping Int’l (HRB / ZYHB)
Beijing Capital Int’l (PEK / ZBAA)
Sat 11:10PM CST
How Bad Weather Led to Massive Flight Cancellations
Flights were heavily impacted by weather systems, including heavy rainfalls and snowstorms, which made it impossible for pilots to operate safely. The flight cancellations began as early as Saturday evening, with several planes grounded and delays mounting. In addition to the harsh weather conditions, dense fog and poor visibility further exacerbated the situation, making it nearly impossible for air traffic control to safely manage flights.
A significant portion of the affected flights involved critical domestic routes between major cities in China, such as Beijing to Shanghai, Chengdu to Shenzhen, and Shanghai to Xi’an, all of which are essential connections for both business and leisure travelers. The cancellations not only left thousands of passengers stranded but also caused considerable congestion at airports, leading to overcrowded terminals and prolonged waiting times.
Key Airports Affected
Air China:
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK / ZBAA) – A major hub for both international and domestic flights, particularly affected by the cancellations of routes like Beijing to Fuzhou and Shenzhen.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG / ZSPD) – The international gateway to China, impacting international travelers connecting to cities like Chengdu and Xi’an.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU / ZUUU) – Severely impacted as flights to and from Chengdu were grounded, affecting business and tourist travel.
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX / ZGSZ) – A key domestic and international airport, severely affected by cancellations on routes to Beijing and Hangzhou.
China Eastern:
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA / ZSSS) – The heart of China Eastern’s operations, with significant flight disruptions to major domestic cities such as Changsha, Nanjing, and Xiamen.
Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN / ZSAM) – A major airport in southeastern China, affected by the cancellation of flights bound for Nanjing.
Shenyang Taoxian International Airport (SHE / ZYTX) – Affected by the grounding of flights, particularly those bound for Hefei and Xi’an.
Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG / ZSNJ) – Key routes from Xiamen and Yinchuan were canceled, heavily affecting travel from Nanjing to other regions.
Hainan Airlines:
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK / ZBAA) – Another critical hub in Beijing that saw cancellations, especially impacting international routes like those to Shanghai and Shenzhen.
Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA / ZSSS) – Cancellations on flights from Shanghai to Beijing and other domestic routes led to extensive passenger backlogs.
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU / ZUTF) – The newest major airport in Chengdu, affected by the grounding of several key flights bound for Shenzhen and Xi’an.
Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX / ZGSZ) – Saw cancellations and delays on flights to Chengdu, Beijing, and other regional destinations.
Key Regions Affected
Air China:
Beijing – As the capital city and a major hub for both domestic and international flights, Beijing was hit hardest by the cancellations. The city’s tourism sector suffered from the disrupted flights to and from famous tourist sites such as the Great Wall.
Shanghai – As the financial capital of China, Shanghai’s business and tourism traffic were significantly impacted, with many international tourists stranded.
Chengdu – A growing tourist destination, Chengdu was impacted by flight cancellations that stranded travelers looking to visit landmarks like the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
Shenzhen – Known for its business and tech sectors, Shenzhen also felt the impact of cancellations, disrupting the travel plans of thousands of tourists and business travelers.
China Eastern:
Shanghai – Disruptions in Shanghai had far-reaching effects on both international and domestic tourism, with the Shanghai Disneyland and the Bund seeing a reduction in tourists.
Nanjing – A key cultural and historical destination in China, Nanjing saw major disruptions affecting travelers heading to historical sites.
Hangzhou – Famous for its West Lake and cultural significance, Hangzhou was among the most affected cities, with many tourists unable to access the city.
Xiamen – Popular for its coastal scenery, Xiamen’s tourism was also affected by the cancellations, especially those to and from major cities like Nanjing.
Hainan Airlines:
Beijing – With a large number of cancellations, Beijing’s tourism was impacted, especially regarding international travelers aiming to explore historical and cultural landmarks.
Shanghai – Shanghai Disneyland, as well as major shopping and business hubs, saw a decline in visitors due to the cancellations.
Chengdu – Famous for its pandas and traditional culture, Chengdu’s local tourism faced a blow as cancellations disrupted travel to the city.
Shenzhen – Known for its tech industries and shopping malls, Shenzhen saw a direct hit to its tourism industry, with travelers unable to attend conventions or visit attractions.
Impacts on Passengers: The Struggle of Getting Home
Passengers affected by these cancellations were left stranded at some of Asia’s busiest airports. With limited information available, many were left frustrated, scrambling to secure new flights or hotel accommodations. While the airlines made efforts to rebook passengers on later flights, long waiting times and lack of available seats led to significant delays. Some passengers were forced to extend their stays, while others faced the challenge of rescheduling their international connections.
Tips for Passengers Affected by Cancellations: What You Can Do
Stay Informed – Continuously check your airline’s website or mobile app for the latest updates on flight statuses.
Contact Your Airline – If your flight is canceled, reach out to customer service for rebooking options, refunds, or compensation for your inconvenience.
Consider Alternative Routes – Depending on availability, consider flying with another airline or using trains, buses, or other modes of transportation to reach your destination.
Be Prepared for Long Waits – Airport terminals can get crowded during cancellations. Bring entertainment and essentials like snacks, water, and power banks to stay comfortable during long waits.
Turning Adversity into Opportunity: How the Tourism Industry Can Recover
Despite the significant disruptions caused by the cancellations, the tourism industry has the potential to bounce back stronger than ever. Airlines can improve by integrating more robust contingency plans for weather disruptions, including better communication with passengers and more proactive rebooking systems.
On the local level, tourism boards should leverage such disruptions as opportunities to improve infrastructure, offer special deals for affected travelers, and promote alternative travel routes to nearby destinations. By showing resilience and adaptability, tourism destinations can foster loyalty among travelers and continue to thrive even in the face of adversity.
Resilience in the Face of Disruption: The Future of Travel
While the cancellations were undoubtedly frustrating for travelers, this event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of travel. As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by weather disruptions, both the aviation and tourism industries must remain adaptable and innovative. By learning from these experiences and continuing to improve operational processes, we can ensure that the future of travel remains resilient and dynamic.
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