Asia faces a major travel crisis as more than 300 flight cancellations sweep across the region in just 48 hours. From China 🇨🇳 and Hong Kong to the Philippines 🇵🇭, South Korea 🇰🇷, and beyond, severe weather—especially Typhoon Wipha—has paralyzed air travel, leaving thousands stranded and forcing airlines and airports to scramble for solutions.
Widespread Disruption: What’s Happening Now
As of July 19, 2025, Asia is in the grip of a powerful weather system. Typhoon Wipha, Severe Tropical Storm Crising, and the annual southwest monsoon have combined to create dangerous conditions for flights. The result is a sharp rise in flight cancellations, delays, and diversions across many countries, including China 🇨🇳, Hong Kong, South Korea 🇰🇷, India 🇮🇳, Thailand 🇹🇭, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Singapore 🇸🇬, Vietnam 🇻🇳, Bangladesh 🇧🇩, Taiwan 🇹🇼, and the Philippines 🇵🇭.
Key Numbers and Affected Regions
- More than 300 flights cancelled across Asia in just two days, with numbers still climbing as storms continue.
- Hong Kong: All Cathay Pacific flights arriving between 5:00am and 6:00pm on July 20 are either delayed or cancelled due to Typhoon Wipha. Departures may resume after 6:00pm, but further changes are possible if the typhoon shifts.
- Philippines: On July 18 and 19, at least 18 domestic flights were cancelled and two diverted because of Typhoon Crising and heavy monsoon rains. Airports in Manila, San Jose, Virac, Tuguegarao, Cauayan, Busuanga, Basco, Clark, Cebu, Masbate, and Naga have all been affected. Over 4,229 passengers have faced delays or cancellations.
- China 🇨🇳: Major airports in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou have seen hundreds of flight cancellations. Airlines like Air China and China Eastern are among the hardest hit.
- Japan 🇯🇵, South Korea 🇰🇷, Taiwan 🇹🇼: Airports in southern and coastal areas are experiencing delays, cancellations, and diversions, especially where typhoon conditions are strongest.
- Southeast Asia: Airports in Thailand 🇹🇭, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Singapore 🇸🇬, and Vietnam 🇻🇳 are reporting major disruptions. In Singapore, Jetstar Asia is winding down operations, adding to the travel chaos.
How Airlines and Airports Are Responding
Airlines and airport authorities across Asia are working around the clock to manage the crisis. Here’s how some of the biggest carriers and agencies are handling the situation:
- Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong):
- All flights arriving before 6:00pm on July 20 are cancelled or delayed.
- Departures may resume after 6:00pm, but this depends on Typhoon Wipha’s path.
- In-town check-in at Hong Kong and Kowloon stations is closed on July 20.
- Ticket change and cancellation fees are waived. Passengers are automatically rebooked or can request changes or refunds through the Manage Booking portal or Customer Care.
- Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP):
- Advises passengers to contact airlines directly for rebooking or refunds.
- Flooding at Busuanga Airport has caused extra cancellations and diversions.
- Japan Airlines (JAL):
- Passengers can change or refund tickets up to two hours before the new flight or until check-in.
- Certificates for delayed, cancelled, or diverted flights are available online.
- Jetstar Asia (Singapore):
- Jetstar Asia will stop flying after July 31, 2025. Until then, flights are being reduced step by step.
- Customers with bookings after July 31 can get full refunds. Those with flights before the closure are being rebooked or refunded as needed.
What Passengers Are Saying
Many travelers are frustrated and anxious as they try to adjust their plans. A passenger stranded in Hong Kong shared, “I was supposed to fly home to Manila, but my flight was cancelled at the last minute. The airline rebooked me, but I still don’t know when I’ll get home.” Another traveler in Singapore said, “With Jetstar Asia shutting down, I’m worried about finding another flight. The airport is packed, and everyone is trying to get help.”
Official Statements and Guidance
- Cathay Pacific: “Our top priority is passenger safety. We are closely monitoring Typhoon Wipha and will update schedules as soon as possible. We encourage customers to check our website for the latest information and use our online tools for rebooking or refunds.”
- CAAP (Philippines): “We urge all passengers to coordinate directly with their airlines. Our teams are working to assist those affected by flight cancellations and airport flooding.”
- Jetstar Asia Management: “We are committed to supporting our customers during this transition. All affected passengers will receive full refunds or rebooking options.”
Why This Is Happening: The Weather Factor
Asia’s annual monsoon and typhoon season, which usually runs from June to September, often causes travel problems. But this year, the situation is much worse. Multiple storms are hitting at the same time, and rainfall is breaking records in several places. Typhoon Wipha, in particular, has brought strong winds and heavy rain to Hong Kong and southern China 🇨🇳, while Typhoon Crising and the southwest monsoon are battering the Philippines 🇵🇭 and Southeast Asia.
The Impact on Immigration and Travel
Flight cancellations and airport closures have a direct effect on people’s lives, especially those traveling for work, study, or family reasons. Many immigrants and foreign workers in Asia rely on air travel to renew visas, attend interviews, or return home for emergencies. When flights are cancelled, these plans are thrown into chaos.
For example:
– Students trying to return to school in Japan 🇯🇵 or South Korea 🇰🇷 may miss important deadlines.
– Foreign workers in Singapore 🇸🇬 or Malaysia 🇲🇾 could face problems with visa renewals if they can’t travel as planned.
– Families separated by borders may have to wait longer to reunite.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these disruptions highlight the need for flexible immigration policies and better support for travelers during extreme weather events. Many governments are now reviewing their emergency response plans to help affected immigrants and visitors.
What Should Affected Passengers Do?
If your flight is cancelled or delayed, here are the steps you should take:
- Check Your Flight Status: Go to your airline’s website or the airport’s official portal for real-time updates.
- Automatic Rebooking: Most airlines are automatically rebooking passengers. Check your email and the Manage Booking section on the airline’s website.
- Refunds and Changes: Use online tools or contact customer care for refunds or to change your flight. Airlines are waiving fees in most cases.
- Get Documentation: If you need proof of a cancelled or delayed flight for insurance or other claims, download a certificate from your airline’s website.
- Contact Points:
- Cathay Pacific: Use the Manage Booking portal or call Customer Care.
- Japan Airlines (JAL): Visit their website for changes, refunds, and certificates.
- Jetstar Asia: Use the Manage Booking tool or live chat with customer service.
- CAAP (Philippines): Contact your airline directly for help.
For more information on your rights as an air passenger, you can visit the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Centre, which provides official updates and guidance.
How Airlines and Airports Are Coping
The surge in flight cancellations is putting huge pressure on airlines and airport staff. Customer service teams are dealing with thousands of calls and emails from worried passengers. At the same time, airlines must manage rebooking, refunds, and crew schedules, all while keeping safety as the top priority.
Airports are also struggling. Some, like Busuanga in the Philippines 🇵🇭, are dealing with flooding and damage to runways and terminals. Others are packed with stranded travelers, making it hard to keep everyone comfortable and informed.
Economic and Social Effects
The impact goes beyond just missed flights. Tourism and business travel are taking a big hit. Hotels, tour operators, and local shops in places like Thailand 🇹🇭, Vietnam 🇻🇳, and Malaysia 🇲🇾 are seeing fewer visitors. Business meetings and trade events are being postponed or cancelled, which affects local economies and jobs.
For immigrants and foreign workers, the disruptions can be even more serious. Missing a flight might mean missing a visa appointment, a job interview, or a family emergency. Some may face extra costs for new tickets or longer stays, which can be a heavy burden.
Expert Views: Why Is This Getting Worse?
Aviation and climate experts say that climate change is making storms like Typhoon Wipha stronger and more common. “We’re seeing more intense weather events, which means more flight cancellations and travel problems,” says a senior aviation analyst. “Airlines and airports are doing their best, but the systems are being tested like never before.”
Travel industry experts advise anyone flying during Asia’s storm season to:
– Buy flexible tickets that can be changed or refunded easily.
– Get travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions.
– Check weather and airline updates often, especially in the days before your trip.
What Are Governments Doing?
Governments in affected countries are working to help stranded travelers and repair damaged airports. Emergency teams are clearing runways, fixing power outages, and providing food and shelter for those stuck at airports. Some countries are also reviewing their immigration and visa policies to allow for more flexibility during disasters.
For example, some immigration offices are allowing late arrivals for visa appointments if travelers can show proof of a cancelled or delayed flight. Others are extending deadlines for document submissions.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
- Typhoon Wipha is expected to keep affecting Hong Kong and southern China 🇨🇳 through July 21. More flight cancellations and delays are likely if the storm changes direction or grows stronger.
- Monsoon conditions will continue across Southeast Asia, with more storms possible in the coming weeks.
- Jetstar Asia’s closure on July 31 will further reduce flight options, especially for travelers in and out of Singapore 🇸🇬.
- Airlines and airports will keep updating schedules and advisories. Passengers should stay alert and be ready to change plans if needed.
Summary Table: Major Disruptions by Country (July 18–19, 2025)
| Country/Region | Main Cause | Key Airports Affected | Notable Airlines Impacted | Passenger Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China 🇨🇳 | Typhoon, Monsoon | Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou | Air China, China Eastern | Hundreds of flights |
| Hong Kong | Typhoon Wipha | Hong Kong Int’l | Cathay Pacific | All arrivals cancelled 5am–6pm, July 20 |
| Philippines 🇵🇭 | Typhoon Crising | Manila, Busuanga, others | Cebu Pacific, PAL, AirAsia | 4,229+ passengers |
| Japan 🇯🇵, S. Korea 🇰🇷 | Typhoon, Rain | Major southern airports | JAL, ANA, Korean Air | Dozens of flights |
| Singapore 🇸🇬 | Monsoon, Airline closure | Changi | Jetstar Asia | Progressive shutdown |
| Thailand 🇹🇭, Malaysia 🇲🇾, Vietnam 🇻🇳, Bangladesh 🇧🇩, Taiwan 🇹🇼 | Monsoon, Storms | Multiple | Various | Widespread delays |
Practical Steps for Travelers
- Always check your airline’s website and local airport advisories before heading to the airport.
- Keep your travel documents and booking details handy in case you need to show proof of your situation.
- Stay patient and flexible. Airlines and airports are working hard, but high demand means longer wait times for help.
- Consider alternative routes or travel dates if your original flight is cancelled.
Conclusion: Staying Safe and Informed
Flight cancellations caused by Typhoon Wipha and other severe weather events are creating major problems for travelers across Asia. The situation is changing quickly, so it’s important to stay informed and use official resources for the latest updates. Airlines are waiving fees and offering flexible options, but high demand means it may take time to get help.
If you are an immigrant, student, or foreign worker, keep in touch with your embassy or consulate for extra support. Governments and airlines are working to help, but your own preparation—like having flexible tickets and travel insurance—can make a big difference.
For the most current information, always check your airline’s official website and local airport advisories before traveling. And for official guidance on air travel rights and updates, visit the IATA Travel Centre.
By staying alert and prepared, travelers can better handle the challenges of flight cancellations and severe weather in Asia.
Learn Today
Typhoon Wipha → A powerful tropical cyclone affecting southern China and Hong Kong, causing severe flight disruptions.
Monsoon → Seasonal wind bringing heavy rains to Asia, often causing travel delays and cancellations.
Flight Cancellation → The official stopping of a scheduled flight, requiring rebooking or refunds for passengers.
Civil Aviation Authority → Government agency regulating and overseeing aviation safety and policies in a country.
Rebooking → The process of changing a passenger’s flight reservation to a new date or flight.
This Article in a Nutshell
Asia’s air travel is severely disrupted by Typhoon Wipha and storms, causing over 300 flight cancellations and forcing airlines like Cathay Pacific to waive fees and rebook passengers amid a growing travel crisis.
— By VisaVerge.com
