Chinese airlines extend free cancellations for Japan-related flights to October

BEIJING: Major Chinese airlines on Monday extended free change and cancellation policies for Japan-related flights to October 24 as the two East Asian countries' worst diplomatic row in years showed no signs of easing.

China's three biggest airlines, Air China 601111.SS, China Eastern 600115.SS and China Southern Airlines 600029.SS, said passengers can change or cancel, for free, tickets including a leg to or from Japan, according to statements they released.

The airlines had previously extended similar policies to March in December 2025 after first announcing them in November, following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks about Taiwan that angered Beijing.