Hong Kong, Mar 13 (IANS): Hong Kong on Wednesday banned Boeing's 737 MAX jet from its airspace until further notice after several other countries restrained their airlines from operating the aircraft type.

The move came amid mounting safety concerns following two crashes involving Boeing 737 MAX 8 planes in a short span of five months.

"The Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has been closely monitoring the developments, the investigation progress and the information from relevant aviation authorities. Having regard to the latest situation, the CAD has decided to temporarily prohibit operation of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft into, out of and over Hong Kong," said a spokesman of the city's aviation regulator in a statement.

"The temporary prohibition will take effect at 6 p.m. Hong Kong time on (Wednesday) and continue until further notice. (It) is solely a precautionary measure to ensure aviation safety and protect the public."