China’s top airlines have lodged formal protests against a U.S. proposal that would ban them from flying over Russian airspace on routes to and from the United States. The airlines say the plan would hurt passengers, raise costs, and create unnecessary disruption to global travel.
✈️ Background: Why the US Wants to Ban the Flights
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently proposed new restrictions that would bar Chinese airlines from using Russian airspace for flights between China and the United States.
The move comes amid long-standing tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when Moscow banned U.S. and most European airlines from entering its airspace in retaliation for Western sanctions.
American carriers argue that Chinese airlines have since gained an unfair advantage, as they can fly shorter, more fuel-efficient routes through Russia — routes that U.S. airlines cannot legally use.
Chinese Airlines File Official Complaints
Six Chinese airlines — including Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines — have filed complaints with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
China Eastern Airlines
In its filing this week, China Eastern said the proposed ban would “harm the public interest” and “inconvenience travelers” from both China and the U.S.
“The additional flight time would result in higher costs and elevated airfares, which increases the burden on all travelers,” the airline said.
China Southern Airlines
China Southern warned that a Russian airspace ban could disrupt thousands of travel plans and cause widespread delays.
Air China
Air China estimated that at least 4,400 passengers could be affected if the ban takes effect during the Thanksgiving and Christmas travel season.
Beijing’s Response
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun criticized the U.S. proposal, calling it “punishing passengers around the world” and warning that the move could escalate tensions in international aviation.
Experts: Route Bans Would Hurt Everyone
David Yu, an aviation industry expert at New York University Shanghai, said the U.S. restrictions on flying over Russia have already added two to three hours to many U.S.-China routes.
“The U.S.-China route historically has been a money-maker for airlines on both sides,” Yu said. “From the Chinese carriers’ perspective, if you can go through Russia, your costs go down.”
Despite the route advantage, Yu noted that Chinese airlines have continued to struggle financially, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted international air travel.
U.S. Officials Say It’s About Fair Competition
In its proposed order, the U.S. Department of Transportation said Chinese airlines’ continued access to Russian airspace has created “competitive imbalances” between U.S. and Chinese carriers.
“Being able to use the most efficient route provides a competitive advantage because it usually results in the shortest flight duration, thereby offering a more appealing option to travelers,” the department said.
The DOT added that it would review public comments before finalizing any decision.
European Airlines Voice Similar Concerns
European carriers, including Air France–KLM, have also complained about the unfair advantage enjoyed by airlines that can still fly through Russian territory.
Meanwhile, United Airlines filed its own request urging the DOT to include Cathay Pacific — Hong Kong’s flagship airline — in any potential ban, arguing that Cathay benefits from similar airspace access.
What Happens Next
The U.S. government is still considering public input on the proposed order.
If approved, the restrictions would force Chinese airlines to re-route around Russian airspace, adding significant time and cost to U.S.-China flights.
Both sides maintain that their positions are based on fairness and safety, but the dispute highlights how global geopolitics continue to reshape international air travel.
