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The US Department of Transportation (DOT) is considering a ban on Chinese airlines flying to the United States from using Russian airspace, according to a report by Reuters. The proposal comes as the Trump administration aims to address what it sees as an unfair advantage for Chinese carriers that continue to access Russian routes, while American airlines remain barred due to sanctions.
US airlines have been prohibited from entering Russian airspace since Western nations imposed restrictions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. These measures also blocked Russian carriers from purchasing aircraft and spare parts. Since then, Chinese airlines traveling to Europe and the United States have been able to reduce fuel use and flight times by continuing to fly over Russia.
According to Reuters, US carriers have criticized the current situation, arguing that it allows Chinese airlines an edge in expanding their international market share, including flights between China and Europe. The DOT’s proposed plan would not apply these overflight restrictions to cargo-only flights. Airlines named in the report include Xiamen Airlines and China’s major carriers: Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines. The DOT has given these airlines two days to respond before issuing a final order that could take effect as soon as November 2025.
