IATA welcomes shorter route over China

BEIJING – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has welcomed the implementation of a new air route over China that will reduce air traffic congestion during the Beijing Olympics. The new route, designated B208, was implemented yesterday.

The Olympic Bypass will alleviate air traffic delays and congestion as flights from Europe to Shanghai, Guangzhou and Hong Kong no longer need to be channelled through Beijing. IATA director general and CEO Giovanni Bisignani said that this is especially critical with the Olympics in August.

“The experience of previous Olympics host cities tells us that there will be significantly more air traffic in China’s skies during the Olympics,” he said.

Bisignani said the Olympic Bypass is the result of multiple discussions IATA has had with the Chinese authorities since 2006.

“By shortening the route by 60 nautical miles, we will save about 83 thousand tonnes of CO2 annually. This is a win-win for all - the Chinese Government, travellers, airlines and most importantly, the environment,” he said.

Bisignani said the Olympic Bypass demonstrates the Chinese government’s continued commitment to improve efficiency in air traffic management in China’s airspace. While being introduced to deal with Olympic-related congestion, this is the latest in a series of major permanent improvements to China’s air traffic management infrastructure.

“We need more governments around the world to be committed to shorten routes and build more efficient infrastructure,” said Bisignani.