British Airways suspends all flights to and from mainland China

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Coronavirus: covered by travel insurance? 8:50

(CNN) - British Airways suspended all flights in and out of mainland China, the airline announced Wednesday.

The British Airways decision comes when countries intensify efforts against the new coronavirus, which began in Wuhan, China, and has spread worldwide.

"We have suspended all flights to and from mainland China with immediate effect following the advice of the Foreign Office against all trips, except essentials," the airline said in a statement.

“We apologize to customers for the inconvenience, but the safety of our customers and crew are always our priority.

"Customers traveling to or from China in the next few days can find more information on ba.com," he adds.

US Airlines

United Airlines also announced Tuesday that it will temporarily reduce its schedule between the United States and three Chinese cities: Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai.

READ: US Airlines offer free exchange flights to China for another month for the coronavirus

An airline industry official told CNN that Trump administration officials informed US airlines on Tuesday about the measures being taken.

In the coversaciones, the White House mentioned the possibility of banning flights to China, but said that for now they will not issue such a ban.

The administration would evaluate the situation daily to determine if further action is necessary, the official said.

British Airways Wuhan Coronavirus