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The Trump administration says it will block Chinese passenger airlines from travelling to the United States starting on 16 June.

The move, made by the US Department of Transportation, reportedly was in response to Beijing refusing to allow US air carriers to resume flights to the country amid the coronavirus pandemic, with the department now putting pressure back on China.

"Our overriding goal is not the perpetuation of this situation, but rather an improved environment wherein the carriers of both parties will be able to exercise fully their bilateral rights," the Transportation Department's order on Wednesday read. "Should the [Chinese aviation authority] adjust its policies to bring about the necessary improved situation for US carriers, the Department is fully prepared to revisit the action it has announced in this order."