With all China-Myanmar Border trade halted in northern Shan State due to Operation 1027 by the Three Brotherhood Alliance, the Military Council is planning a new air route- Yangon-Kunming-Yangon three times a week to alleviate this disruption of border trade.
A source close to Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) has told DMG that this airline will operate a Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft for a new route, Yangon-Kunming-Yangon, departing from Yangon International Airport (Terminal 1) three days a week.
"With the closure of China-Myanmar border trade gates, it seems the air route is implemented to prevent traders from experiencing hardships," he remarked.
Traders reported that China-Myanmar border trading gates, like Chin Shwe Haw, Muse, and Shweli (Ruili), have been halted due to Operation 1027 by the Three Brotherhood Alliance, which commenced on October 27. This has resulted in a significant number of goods being stranded.
It is reported that one-way tickets for Yangon-Kumin-Rangoon flights will be priced at US$279, with round-trip tickets costing up to US$464, and the prices for transporting goods will be disclosed separately.
Traders noted that relying on the air route for trade may pose long-term inconvenience due to the much higher costs that could escalate up to five times their current expenses. They emphasized the need for the Junta to consider the long-term implications of such a decision.
"This flight is only suitable for passengers. Sending goods is limited, and the cost is higher than inland transportation, resulting in potential losses for traders," commented a trader on the China-Myanmar border.
A trader in Muse Township remarked, "The fighting hasn't entirely ceased, preventing trucks from departing at the Chinese border gate. Some are stranded in the trading zone, while others are stuck on Lashio Road."
The Three Brotherhood Alliance's Operation 1027, initiated on October 27, is intensifying, with the operational area gradually expanding. Over the 12-day period of Operation 1027, the Three Brotherhood Alliance declared the capture of more than 120 military council camps and the control of 8 towns.
