How airline ticket scalpers took over the Chinese travel market

A version of this story appeared in CNN's Meanwhile in China newsletter, a three-times-a-week update exploring what you need to know about the country's rise and how it impacts the world.When I made up my mind to travel outside of Hong Kong in early March, the city's daily Covid-19 case count had just passed 50,000, with the highest fatality rate in the world.I knew traveling from a Covid hotspot to an area with a rigorous zero-Covid policy was going to be tricky.

Air ticketing agents in China used to sell deeply discounted tickets from airlines. But as China essentially seals itself off from the outside world and cuts down on the number of incoming travelers, international flights have dwindled to a miniscule 2% of the pre-pandemic level, said the state aviation administration.

For the date I planned to travel, she asked for 11,000 RMB for a new booking. It was a ridiculous amount for the 2.5-hour route. The full prices pre-pandemic ranged from $300-450 per trip. Once a major global hub, Hong Kong's airport traffic has decreased significantly during the pandemic.The day of my trip arrived. Hong Kong International Airport was incredibly quiet, with only a few counters operating.

"Sorry we couldn't get you on that plane. See that lady waiting there? She has a ticket, but we can't even get her on today," the clerk responded to the group, pointing in my direction. In some cases, even money can't buy a trip home. I learned that scammers were targeting overseas Chinese and taking advantage of their desperation.

Chinese international travellers spread their virus from China to every corner of the world 🤧.

真的吗？我中国人，我咋不知道？这时候出去的，能叫正常的游客吗？xswl

Yea, welcome to every live concert, sporting event and festival. C’mon. I mean this almost sounds like the housing crisis being bought up by big companies and not other buyers causing outrageous prices…nah that would never happen.

😳 GOP Rep. Paul Gosar spread a baseless transphobic rumor that the Uvalde school shooting suspect was a 'transsexual leftist illegal alien'

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