United Airlines suspends non-stop flights between Chicago and Hong Kong, citing weak demand amid anti-government protest crisis

American airline giant does not directly blame protests – and will add another direct flight from San Francisco

Customers affected by cancellation to be offered alternative tickets or refunds

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United Airlines on the tarmac at San Francisco International Airport. Photo: AFP

Published: 6:02pm, 24 Aug 2019Updated: 11:44pm, 24 Aug 2019

United Airlines announced on Saturday that it would suspend non-stop flights between Chicago and Hong Kong, citing weak demand at a time when citywide protests have discouraged potential visitors.

Chicago-based United did not directly blame the suspension on the anti-government protest crisis that has gripped Hong Kong since June. The Post has learned that the Chicago-Hong Kong route was losing money before passengers began decreasing more rapidly in recent weeks.

“Given the reduced demand for travel between Chicago and Hong Kong, we have determined that it is best to suspend our service,” the airline said in a statement. The last flight from Chicago will be on September 8.

United also said it would suspend flights from Guam to Hong Kong earlier than planned, with the final flight on October 14. The airline said on June 26 that it would introduce a second flight to Hong Kong from San Francisco, starting on October 26.

“We will continue to serve Hong Kong from our hubs in San Francisco and New York Newark,” the airline said.

United said customers affected by the cancellation would be offered alternative travel plans or refunds.

United’s decision to end service between Hong Kong and Chicago appears more associated with weak yields

Edward Russell, reporter for The Points Guy travel website