In a significant development for international aviation, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a tentative order on October 9, proposing to restrict Chinese airlines from utilizing Russian airspace for flights destined for the United States. This decision aims at creating a more equitable competitive environment for U.S. carriers.
The DOT has granted Chinese airlines a narrow window of two days to contest this order. If the measure is finalized, it will impact all airlines from China that currently operate on U.S. routes, which includes major carriers such as Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, and Xiamen Airlines.
This order addresses a long-standing grievance voiced by U.S. airline operators. Since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, U.S. carriers have been barred from flying over Russian airspace, a restriction that has been perceived to give Chinese carriers an unfair advantage, as they can opt for more efficient and quicker routes.
The DOT articulated its position, stating, “Based on the facts before us, we have tentatively determined that the practice by some Chinese air carriers in exercising Russian overflights for China-U.S. scheduled flights is unfair and has resulted in substantial adverse competitive effects on U.S. air carriers in the U.S.-China combination market.”
Support from Airlines for America
The trade association Airlines for America expressed commendation for this initiative. “This is an important step that will help ensure U.S. airlines can compete with Chinese carriers on a level playing field,” the organization stated. They affirmed a commitment to collaborating with the administration to enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. airlines.
Current U.S.-China Flight Arrangements
Under the present agreement, airlines from the U.S. and China are allowed a combined total of 50 roundtrip flights per week between the two nations. Data from Cirium indicates that this month, Chinese airlines are fully utilizing this cap with 220 roundtrips, while major U.S. carriers, including United, Delta, and American Airlines, are collectively offering 212 flights.
Chinese Airlines’ Current Flight Paths
Interestingly, many Chinese airlines are already opting to bypass Russian airspace on their routes to the U.S. For instance, on October 9, Air China’s flight from New York’s JFK to Beijing took a route over southern Alaska and entered Asia through South Korea, avoiding the typical polar route that crosses Russia. This reflects a cautious approach amidst the geopolitical tensions affecting air travel.
As developments unfold, the final decision from the DOT could reshape the competitive landscape of the U.S.-China aviation market significantly, leveling the playing field for both U.S. and Chinese carriers. The aviation industry is keenly watching how this situation will evolve.
