The COVID-19 pandemic has had a severe impact on the aviation industry worldwide, with passenger numbers plummeting in 2020 due to travel restrictions and safety concerns. However, the situation seems to be gradually improving in some regions, with Shanghai witnessing a marked increase in passenger throughput at its airports in January 2023.
According to a statement by Shanghai Customs on Thursday, two airports in Shanghai – Hongqiao International Airport and Pudong International Airport – observed a significant surge in passenger numbers in January. Hongqiao International Airport witnessed a year-on-year increase of 37.5 percent in passenger throughput, with over 2.6 million passengers. Meanwhile, Pudong International Airport saw a growth of 34.2 percent, handling over 2.8 million passenger trips compared to the previous year.
The growth can be attributed to China’s optimized COVID response and entry-exit policies, as well as an adjustment in response measures after China downgraded the management of COVID-19 from Class A to Class B on Jan 8. This led to the easing of certain epidemic-related restrictions on international passenger flights.
To further enhance the complete revival of the aviation industry, the customs authorities have taken various measures to intensify hygiene inspection and quarantine. These measures aim to strengthen the confidence of passengers in air travel and ensure their safety during the ongoing pandemic.
The surge in passenger throughput at Shanghai’s airports is undoubtedly good news for the aviation industry, as it indicates that people are gradually resuming their travel plans. It is also a positive sign for the economy as a whole, as the aviation industry is a crucial driver of economic growth and development. As such, governments and industry players around the world must continue to work together to ensure the safe revival of the aviation industry, while maintaining a balance between safety and economic recovery.