AsBAA China Chapter comment on COVID-19

An interview with Michael Chen, member of the AsBAA Board of Governors, on the implications of COVID-19 on the aviation industry in China and the wider region. 

1: COVID-19 is an issue affecting the whole region. How can BA/GA be of service to governments, corporations, and communities in this time of crisis?

COVID-19 affects more than just mainland China and Asia, it’s a global issue. Part of the related challenges are communication-based, and whilst swift coordination between stakeholders is vital, the lack of any cohesive crisis strategy has slowed that process down. Going forward, as an industry, through AsBAA, the question should be “what kind of mechanism and or platform is most effective for BA/GA to be of service to governments, corporations, and communities in this time of crisis?” we know that BA/GA has been a lifeline to communities across the world in times of disaster and crisis. In the case of COVID-19, the scale of the outbreak, along with limited plans in place, has caused delays.

2: What is BA/GA’s role right now?

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) announced that BA/GA is one of two wings of domestic civil transportation, along with commercial options. CAAC also announced some regulatory changes to enable BA/GA to be part of the disaster relief. The government has recognised that BA/GA plays a unique and vital role in the movement of crisis and medical personnel, emergency medical transportation, traffic directing, air survey, air disinfection etc. CAAC also recently launched a platform for operators voluntary to be on duty in the General Management System to help the disaster relief, indicating its willingness to support BA/GA at this time. (http://ga.caac.gov.cn/gacaac/home.html ).

3: In your experience, what proportion of operators are willing to support communities in times of crisis?

Enormous support. Operators and individuals have shown willingness to support the affected communities. Many have donated resources for medical services.

4: As the airlines face significant difficulties, can BA/GA be a viable resource?

The difficulties faced by the airlines are caused by the government’s block on the movement of passengers. BA/GA is not exempt from the same public health measures, meaning that all aviation stakeholders face the same lockdown. We need to work together for a solution to support the government and aid agencies to fight the outbreak of the disease and return to normalcy as quickly as possible, while providing assistance to those in need. Separately, drones (UAV operators) can provide services to urban communities and villages, offering short-term relief.