BEIJING -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Thursday urged Taiwan authorities to remove unreasonable restrictions on the air transport across the Taiwan Strait.

Speaking at a press conference, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, noted that there is a strong demand among compatriots on both sides of the Strait for the full restoration of direct flight routes.

As the Spring Festival is the most important traditional holiday for the Chinese nation, Taiwan compatriots, businesspeople, and students eagerly hope for a smooth journey home to celebrate the New Year, Chen said.

The relevant mainland authorities will prioritize the needs and concerns of Taiwan compatriots and actively prepare for the additional cross-Strait charter flights during the Spring Festival period, he added.

"We hope the Taiwan side will heed public sentiment, promptly remove unreasonable restrictions on cross-Strait air transport, and meet the travel demands of compatriots on both sides, especially those from Taiwan," Chen said.