USDOT fines Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways for FAA flight violations

The USDOT's investigation into Ethiopian Airlines revealed that unauthorized operations occurred over an extended period from February 2020 to December 2022. These actions were deemed serious due to potential safety risks associated with operating in prohibited zones.

Etihad's infractions involved multiple flights using JetBlue's code between August 2022 and April 2023. Despite several notices from USDOT regarding restricted airspace use, Etihad continued its flights against FAA regulations.

These fines reflect the Department of Transportation's commitment to enforcing airspace rules and ensuring international carriers adhere to standards applied to US operators. The airlines have been instructed to cease such activities immediately, with warnings that future violations could lead to further legal action and financial penalties.

This action is part of a broader effort by the DOT to address foreign airlines operating without necessary permits in restricted airspace. Similar sanctions have been levied against other international carriers recently.

In September 2024, Air Canada was fined $250,000 for flying through Iraqi airspace under United Airlines' code. Earlier this year, Emirates faced a $1.5 million penalty for entering Baghdad's restricted airspace with a JetBlue code due to air traffic control instructions.

The FAA maintains strict bans on US airlines flying over certain regions due to security concerns related to conflict zones or unstable air traffic control systems. The DOT emphasizes the importance of respecting operational boundaries when flying over geopolitically sensitive areas.