Chinese airlines have extended flight cancellations and refund policies for Japan-bound routes through December 2025, following diplomatic tensions sparked by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent comments regarding the Taiwan region. Over 480,000 flight bookings between the two nations have been canceled since December 1, with major carriers suspending 37 regular routes.
The aviation freeze comes as cross-strait relations face renewed scrutiny. Industry analysts estimate the disruptions could cost China-Japan air travel markets over $300 million in lost revenue this month alone. Business travelers and winter tourism operators report widespread itinerary challenges, particularly affecting tech sector exchanges scheduled around year-end supply chain reviews.
While neither government has issued formal travel advisories, the Civil Aviation Administration of China has urged carriers to maintain flexible rebooking options. The developments coincide with heightened regional attention to cross-strait stability, following last month's APEC leaders' meeting where maintaining peaceful development in the Taiwan Strait was emphasized.
