Air regulator the Civil Aviation Administration of China has extended the suspension of UK flights.
China initially said it would halt flights to and from the UK until 10 January to try and contain the spread of the more infectious strain of Covid.
Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the temporary ban will continue for an indefinite period.
"Considering the specific nature of the virus in order to protect the health of Chinese and foreign personnel, China has decided to suspend flights to and from the UK after a full assessment and taking into account the practices of other countries," Wang recently said.
The CAAC called on Chinese and foreign airlines to ensure ticket refunds and flight changes for affected passengers are completed in a coordinated and timely manner.
Hong Kong also recently extended its UK flight ban for at least another two weeks.
Flag carrier Cathay Pacific extended UK flight cancellations until 25 January.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Editor
