China Airlines Steps Up to Provide Disaster Relief
Taiwan’s China Airlines announced on Saturday that it will ship disaster relief supplies to Myanmar and Thailand free of charge in response to the massive earthquake that struck central Myanmar on Friday afternoon.
The airline expressed its commitment to assisting Taiwanese nationals and other affected travelers while working closely with government agencies and charities to provide humanitarian aid to the quake-stricken regions.
Key Travel Updates from Taiwan’s Major Airlines
The 7.7-magnitude earthquake near Mandalay, Myanmar, has not disrupted China Airlines’ flights to Yangon and Chiang Mai, but the airline has introduced flexible ticket policies to support affected travelers.
China Airlines:
- Passengers traveling to and from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Yangon before April 15 can cancel or change their tickets without a fee.
EVA Airways:
- Tickets issued before March 29 for travel to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Yangon between March 29 and April 30 can be canceled or rescheduled once for free.
Starlux Airlines:
- Passengers flying to and from Bangkok and Chiang Mai for travel before April 4 can cancel or change their tickets without fees.
Impact of the Earthquake
The magnitude 7.7 earthquake, with an epicenter near Mandalay, struck at a depth of 10 kilometers, causing widespread destruction across Myanmar and parts of Thailand. The disaster has led to significant damage, prompting airlines to take swift action in assisting relief efforts and ensuring passenger safety.
As the situation develops, airlines continue to monitor conditions and coordinate with authorities to provide necessary assistance to those in need.
FAQs
How is China Airlines helping with the earthquake relief efforts?
China Airlines is offering free shipment of disaster relief supplies to Myanmar and Thailand and working with government agencies and charities to support the affected areas.
Are flights to Myanmar and Thailand affected by the earthquake?
No, China Airlines’ flights to Yangon and Chiang Mai remain unaffected. However, ticket flexibility has been introduced for passengers.
What are the ticket change policies for affected travelers?
China Airlines: Free ticket changes/cancellations for flights to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Yangon before April 15.
EVA Airways: Free ticket changes/cancellations for flights to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Yangon between March 29 and April 30 (if issued before March 29).
Starlux Airlines: Free ticket changes/cancellations for flights to Bangkok and Chiang Mai before April 4.
What was the magnitude of the earthquake?
The earthquake registered 7.7 on the Richter scale and had a depth of 10 kilometers, impacting Myanmar and Thailand significantly.
Will airlines provide further assistance beyond ticket flexibility?
Yes, airlines continue to monitor the situation and work with local governments to provide relief and support for affected passengers.
