By James Reinl
NEW YORK (AA) – American Airlines and Delta Airlines suspended all of their flights to China on Friday amid mounting concerns of a coronavirus outbreak that has infected almost 10,000 people.
American Airlines has suspended all flights to mainland China from Friday until March 27, while Delta’s suspension takes effect on Feb. 6 and lasts until April 30, allowing passengers already in China to exit the country.
“The last China-bound flight departing the U.S. will leave on Monday, Feb. 3 with the last return flight back to the U.S. departing China on Feb. 5,” Delta said in a statement on its website.
“The airline will continue to monitor the situation closely and may make additional adjustments as the situation continues to evolve.”
In a statement, American Airlines said it had decided to suspend flights after the U.S. State Department’s recent elevation of its advisory on China to Level 4, which recommends: “Do Not Travel”.
“Our teams are contacting affected customers directly to accommodate their needs,” the airline said on its website.
“We will continue to evaluate the schedule for March 28 and beyond and make any adjustments as necessary.”
The coronavirus outbreak has claimed 213 lives in China, with some 9,600 cases reported so far, with 100 cases confirmed in 22 countries outside China.
The novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), which originated in Wuhan city, is said to have been transmitted to humans from animals, particularly bats.
The virus has raised alarm globally with cases reported across Asia, Europe, the U.S. and Canada.
Travelers from China are being screened for the virus at airports worldwide. Several airlines have suspended flights to Wuhan.
