Alerts Sign-up
China’s largest state-owned airlines have formally opposed a US plan that would bar them from flying over Russian airspace on routes to and from the United States. Six Chinese carriers filed complaints with the US Department of Transportation (DOT), arguing that such a ban would increase ticket prices and disrupt travel for passengers between the two countries.
The proposed measure follows a 2022 decision by Russia to close its airspace to US airlines after sanctions were imposed in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This forced American carriers to take longer, more expensive routes when flying to Asia, while Chinese airlines retained access to direct paths over Russia. The US government now seeks to remove what it sees as an unfair competitive advantage for Chinese carriers.
In their filings, Air China stated opposition due to increased inconvenience for travelers, estimating that "at least 4,400 passengers hold Air China tickets" in the next two months who would be affected by the disruption, which would "impact passenger rights." China Eastern Airlines said the ban "would extend the flight time on [its] most important routes by two to three hours." China Southern projected nearly 3,000 passengers scheduled during the holiday season "would need to be re-booked, jeopardizing their travel plans." Xiamen Airlines raised environmental concerns, saying "increased flight distances and higher fuel consumption will result in greater carbon emissions."
