Coronavirus Effects on the Global Transportation System

As the coronavirus continues to move across the globe, its effects on shared transportation modes and freight shipping are becoming more apparent.

1 minute read

March 9, 2020, 9:00 AM PDT

By Camille Fink


New York MTA

gabriel12 / Shutterstock

The coronavirus is affecting global transportation networks, with public transportation and air travel hit especially hard. The impacts in Chinese cities portend what could be coming to other parts of the world as the virus continues to spread.

"In Shanghai and Beijing, which are not subject to quarantine, ridership on their metro systems are down 85 percent and 91 percent, respectively (Check out the full data table here.) Intercity rail trips have dropped more than 80 percent. Domestic airlines cut 13,000 daily flights within the country and some desperate ones are offering $4 fares," writes Paul Lewis.

Research suggests that public transit is not where people are infected, and the work and social sites that people use transit to reach are the concern. Still, transit agencies are preparing systems, says Lewis. "[They] are investing millions of dollars for masks, signage, and disinfectant supplies to enable continue operations during a potential outbreak. Private companies are also implementing policies to ensure the safety of their employees and customers."

The coronavirus pandemic is also highlighting the interconnectedness of the global supply chain as freight shipping delays affect manufacturing around the world. "Such disruptions will have short term effects on the ability to sell products, but in the long run could force companies to rethink supply chains exposed to epidemic risks," adds Lewis.

Friday, February 28, 2020 in Eno Center for Transportation

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of "Apartment for rent" sign in red text on black background in front of blurred building

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program

Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

April 21, 2025 - Housing Wire

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

April 23, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Ken Jennings stands in front of Snohomish County Community Transit bus.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series

The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

April 20, 2025 - Streetsblog USA

Floor-to-ceiling rotating gates at Fairmount subway station in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Crime Continues to Drop on Philly, San Francisco Transit Systems

SEPTA and BART both saw significant declines in violent crime in the first quarter of 2025.

April 28 - Mass Transit

South LA Wetlands Park in Los Angeles, California.

How South LA Green Spaces Power Community Health and Hope

Green spaces like South L.A. Wetlands Park are helping South Los Angeles residents promote healthy lifestyles, build community, and advocate for improvements that reflect local needs in historically underserved neighborhoods.

April 28 - ABC 7 Eyewitness News

Intersection in downtown Sacramento, California with neoclassical building with columns on left.

Sacramento Plans ‘Quick-Build’ Road Safety Projects

The city wants to accelerate small-scale safety improvements that use low-cost equipment to make an impact at dangerous intersections.

April 28 - The Sacramento Bee