Powerful Typhoon “Bavi” which struck China’s eastern coast, has caused major disruptions to international air traffic, forcing Air Serbia to revise its flight schedule to China.

Air Serbia Delays Flights to Shanghai and Guangzhou

Air Serbia announced that flights between Belgrade and Shanghai (JU986/JU987) have been delayed due to severe weather conditions. As a result, the airline has also adjusted the schedule for its Belgrade–Guangzhou service (JU988/JU989). Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status through Air Serbia’s official communication channels before traveling.

Although international airports in the affected parts of China remain open, they are operating with significantly reduced capacity. Around 650 flights have been cancelled at Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao airports, while thousands of other flights across the country have been delayed due to strong winds and heavy rainfall brought by Typhoon “Bavi” Airport authorities have temporarily reduced the number of takeoffs and landings to ensure safe flight operations.

Major Disruptions Across Asian Airlines

The disruption has extended well beyond Air Serbia. Due to Typhoon “Bavi” numerous international airlines—particularly those based in Asia—have cancelled or delayed flights to eastern China, Taiwan, and southern Japan.

Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways cancelled dozens of flights, while Malaysia Airlines suspended several services between Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai, as well as selected flights to Taipei. Other Asian carriers also adjusted their schedules, offering passengers free ticket changes or refunds for affected bookings.

The most significant disruptions have been reported at Shanghai Pudong and Shanghai Hongqiao airports, where hundreds of domestic and international flights have been cancelled or delayed. Strong winds and torrential rain forced airport authorities to reduce operational capacity, causing delays on numerous long-haul routes connecting Asia with Europe and other international destinations.

Travel Changes for Passengers from the United States

The typhoon has also affected some U.S. airlines. Although American carriers operate far fewer flights to mainland China than their Asian counterparts, Delta Air Lines introduced flexible travel policies for passengers affected by the storm, allowing free itinerary changes for flights to impacted destinations in the region. Several flights between the United States and East Asia have also experienced delays or schedule adjustments due to operational restrictions at Shanghai and other airports affected by the typhoon.

When Will Air Traffic Return to Normal?

Chinese meteorological authorities warn that although Typhoon “Bavi” has weakened after making landfall, heavy rainfall and strong winds will continue to affect eastern China. As a result, disruptions to air travel are expected to continue over the coming days. Travelers planning to fly to or through China are advised to monitor updates from their airlines and the airports they will be using.