Chinese airlines urge Trump administration not to impose ban on flights over Russian airspace
Major Chinese airlines have asked the administration of US President Donald Trump not to ban them from flying through Russian airspace, as this would make flights to the US longer and more expensive and could disrupt international air traffic. reports Reuters.
Last week, the US Department of Transportation proposed to ban Chinese carriers from using Russian airspace on routes to and from the US, arguing that the reduction in flight time puts American carriers at a disadvantage. Chinese airlines note that the change of routes will lead to an increase in the duration of flights on a number of key destinations by two to three hours and will significantly increase fuel costs.
In addition, they warn of negative consequences for a significant number of passengers in the US and China. According to one airline, at least 2,800 passengers planning to travel during the peak period from November 1 to December 31 will be forced to rebook their tickets, which could disrupt their vacation plans.
Recall that Russia banned the flights of American and many other foreign airlines over its airspace in response to restrictions imposed by the United States in March 2022 after the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
