CAAC Penalizes China United Airlines for Safety Oversight

China's aviation authority will impose restrictions on China United Airlines (KN) following a series of incidents and mass disturbances.

In a notice, the CAAC North China Regional Administration said, starting September 1, it will cut flying hours of the low-cost carrier by 10 percent and withhold approvals of new air routes, chartered services and additional flights.

In June and July, three serious flight irregularities happened including physical fights between airline staff and incensed passengers and rule-breaking operations of pilots. Besides, the aviation watchdog has founded as many as 50 safety issues and incidents in various aspects of China United Airlines.

As for the airline staff violated related regulations would be grounded for three to six months, the aviation watchdog said.

The CAAC urged airlines and airports to fulfill their responsibilities and attach great importance to ensuring the safe and normal services.

China's aviation watchdog has ordered 204 airports to tighten security checks and 56 airlines to improve management of dangerous substances, to ensure flight safety during the booming tourism season.