In response to heightened security concerns and political tensions, China’s leading airlines have introduced special measures to assist passengers traveling to Japan. On Saturday, November 16, 2025, major carriers including Air China, China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines announced free refunds and rebooking options for eligible Japan-bound tickets. This initiative follows a security alert issued by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its embassies in Japan, urging Chinese citizens to avoid travel to the country due to escalating safety risks. The advisory cited increased public security issues, such as violent incidents involving Chinese nationals and unresolved cases, as well as provocative statements by Japanese leaders regarding Taiwan, which have strained bilateral relations. Passengers who purchased or reissued tickets before midday on Saturday and have unused travel segments to or from major Japanese cities—including Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Hiroshima, and Okinawa—can apply for free refunds or itinerary changes until December 31, 2025. The policy covers both standard and mileage-redemption tickets for flights operated by the airlines and certain codeshare services. Requests must be submitted after 00:00 on Saturday, in accordance with each airline’s specific conditions. The airlines emphasized that these temporary arrangements aim to provide flexibility for passengers adjusting their travel plans in light of the government’s warning. Chinese authorities also advised citizens currently in Japan to remain vigilant, enhance personal safety measures, and seek assistance from local police or Chinese diplomatic missions if needed.
China’s major airlines offer refunds and rebooking for Japan-bound passengers amid security alert
