Greater Bay Airlines, a Hong Kong-based carrier, has announced the cancellation of 200 flights scheduled over the next two months. The decision stems from delays in the delivery of new aircraft and ongoing safety inspections of its existing fleet. The disruption, which affects both regional and international routes, is expected to impact thousands of passengers.
The airline cited supply chain issues and stringent regulatory requirements as primary causes for the delay in acquiring additional planes. These challenges come as the aviation industry continues to recover from the global pandemic’s impact on manufacturing and operations.
In a statement, Greater Bay Airlines expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to passengers, promising full refunds and alternative travel arrangements where possible. The carrier emphasized that passenger safety remains a top priority, and rigorous safety checks are necessary to maintain its operational standards.
Industry analysts note that this disruption highlights broader issues within the aviation sector, including increased demand for aircraft amid a constrained supply chain. Airlines worldwide are facing similar hurdles, with delivery backlogs from manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus compounding operational difficulties.
Affected passengers are advised to check the airline’s website for updates and contact customer service for assistance. Despite the setback, Greater Bay Airlines remains optimistic about resolving these challenges and resuming normal operations in the coming months.